Army Pfc. Michael Smith, an MRAP driver for Scout Plt, A Troop, 1st Sqdrn, 33rd Cav Regt, overlooks a wadi in Dwomandah district, during a recon- gathering mission to secluded villages, March 21. Since late January, the Soldiers of Scout Plt and their ANA counterparts have helped bring this region into focus for the ISAF and the GoA.

KHOST PROVINCE —The western edge near the Pakistan border is a labyrinth of mountains, dry riverbeds, and far-flung villages. Governance and infrastructure are still developing. The region is the perfect hideout for members of the Taliban and the Haqani network.

On March 20, Scout Plt left Camp Clark with support from the ANA, to visit 4 areas of interest over the course of 2 days. At the 3rd area of interest, the troops fanned out in 2 squad formations and combed the hill for traces of enemy movement, such as fire pits, dugouts and spent shell casings.

The troops spent the night at COP Wilderness and were happy to sleep with a roof over their heads. They’re accustomed to sleeping in their vehicles or on the ground.

The following morning, Scout Plt visited a village called Seyyed Kheyl. Unlike the others, Seyyed Kheyl is large enough that Smith describes it as an “urban environment” that spans both sides of the wadi (dry riverbed). The troops dismounted and patrolled the village, crossing over a large stream in the wadi by a bridge made of a log and some rocks that the locals had been using.

“A baseline of info hasn’t been established in Dwomandah district, so we are basically building things from the ground up in conjunction with other govt agencies,” said Scout plt leader 1st Lt. James Rudisill.

So far, Scout Plt hasn't encountered the enemy enroute to their areas of interest, but they're in a constant battle against the terrain. Many of the areas of interest can only be reached by traveling off-road through the wadis.

Given the life-threatening nature of rollovers near water, the drivers must be on guard when crossing areas in wadis where water still moves. “The terrain is our biggest enemy—that pretty much sums it up,” said Pfc. Michael Smith, an MRAP driver.

“That’s the biggest issue we have—getting out and being able to engage all these villages,” said Sgt. 1st Class Richard Edwards, plt sgt for Scout Plt.Once the Soldiers reach an area of interest, they pull security while the platoon leadership seeks out village leadership, and ask about the village’s civil and security needs.

“The willingness to cooperate is there,” Edwards said, adding that the relationship between the unit and the villagers is a “young relationship with a lot of potential. There's noticeable improvement every time we go out.”

Spc. Jeramy Bills, a medic, overlooks the harsh terrain while on guard in a village in Dwomandah district.

Troops climb a hill to Sayid Kheyl village.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Member of British Parliament visits FOB Lion

By Staff Sgt. Donald Reeves

Jeremy Lewis, U.S. Agency for Int'l Development senior field program officer for PRT Panjshir, and Hugo Swire, member of House of Commons, British Parliament, plant a baloot oak on top of a mountain peak in Panjshir, March 22.

PANJSHIR PROVINCE - Hugo Swire visited PRT Panjshir at FOB Lion.Panjshir is often referred to as a model prov., for its level of security and close working relationship between the local govt and ISAF, according to AF Lt. Col. Curtis Velasquez, PRT cmdr.

The PRT is comprised of members of U.S. military and their civilian counterparts. They're responsible for working with local govt officials to promote security, governance and reconstruction.

Swire was in the military, he said, “a long time ago,” serving as part of the regt known as the Grenadier Guards. Currently, the regt is stationed in Helmand prov., a very kinetic area in southern Afghanistan.

Swire said that Great Britain has a longstanding connection to the country of Afghanistan. “We’ve had a historic link with Afghanistan for many hundreds of years, going back to before the 19th century,” said Swire. “The British people have always known about this country, if only as a distant place.”

Currently G.B. is the second largest contributor of forces to the Afghanistan coalition, with over 9,000 troops on the ground according to the MoD Web site. Swire said that when the number of troops deployed is compared to the overall size of the military, his country is putting forth a tremendous effort.

Swire said that his countrymen need to see the process of “Aghanization," which is building up Afghanistan forces to police and defend their own country. Swire also pointed to the efforts of the PRT working alongside Afghans.

PRT Panjshir has worked with Afghans to develop roads, clinics, community governance centers and schools. Swire sees education as the way ahead. “If you have a population that is innumerate and illiterate, they're far more likely to be influenced, than if they're able to make decisions and judgments for themselves based on fact and reason,” said Swire.

While on top of the mountain Swire planted a mountain oak seed that Jeremy Lewis and the PRT had germinated. Later Swire commented on the tree. “I'll come back and see that tree one day,” said Swire. “I hope that when I do that there are no American and British military here, and that Afghanistan is a country at peace with itself and its neighbors.

Hugo Swire and AF Lt. Col. Velasquez, hiked to the top of a mountain to plant a mountain oak seed.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

People of Sarobi receive trees

By Army Pfc. Christopher McKenna

Afghan agricultural advisors teach people in the Sarobi district, how to properly take care of trees that were given to the locals by the ANA soldiers and the Paktika PRT, March 23. There were a series of erosion control trees and orchard trees distributed to the people.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – The ANA partnered with the FOB Orgun-E det of the Paktika PRT to deliver erosion control trees and orchard trees, to locals in the Sarobi District, March 23.

“The erosion control trees are designed to strengthen the land along the wady’s and canals,” said Army Capt. Phillip Stone, Orgun-E PRT officer-in- charge. “Water is basically the source of life of everything, and is the most precious commodity.”

Apricot , almond, and apple trees were among those distributed for orchards. “The orchard trees are not going to be able to provide a lot of sustainable value in the immediate future, but when those trees begin to take root and grow over the next couple of years, the villages and families can live off them, and provide a source of income,” said Stone.

Most of the farms in eastern Pakitka prov. are subsistence only, meaning they don’t generate income, he said. The crops produced by individual farms are used to feed the farmers and their families.

The tree distribution is an ongoing project, initiated by previous PRTs. In the process 2 local Afghan agricultural advisors were hired to teach the locals how to care for the trees.

“It’s necessary to know that most of the hard work involved with programs like this is credited to the Afghans,” Stone said. “We can fill in the gaps for the money, but it’s the Afghans who do all the hard work. They do the training. They’re the teachers, the learners and they're going to be the planters and the maintainers.”

Mohamad Qasan (second from the right), the Sarobi district sub-gov., stands with 2 ANA soldiers and a Sheikh from Sarobi, as trees were distributed.

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Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO

Kentucky ADT Celebrates Farmer's Day in Panjshir

(Photos by Staff Sgt. Donald Reeves)

PANJSHIR - Gov. Bahlul; Miriam Panshiri, dir. of women's affairs; Army Col. Mike Farley, Kentucky ADT cmdr; and Hashmatullah Enyat, dir. of agriculture, hand out more than a hundred shovels and trees to local farmers on Farmer's Day, March 23. The Kentucky ADT partners with the Panjshir PRT, and the local govt, to improve the agriculture in Panjshir district. Farley said, "agriculture is the one thing that has helped this country survive. The conservation methods being taught to Afghans will move Panjshiris from sustenance farming, and push them to the next level," said Farley.

Col. Mike Farley, Kentucky ADT cmdr, plants a tree. To date they have created 60 to 70 missions in Panjshir that help community farmer's work together in sharing tools and knowledge.

Panjshir farmers listen to speeches. Local farmers, U.S. military and Panshir officials planted more than 100 trees to mark the occasion.

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DoD Imagery

(DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Gary Witte, Army)

KUNAR PROVINCE - Army Staff Sgt. James Clark, a section sgt with 2nd Plt, Bear Troop, 3rd Sqdrn, 61st Cav Regt, TF Destroyer, watches as ANA soldiers walk toward Nangal village in the Naray district, March 8, 2010. ISAF are providing support for the mission, which helped the ANA familiarize itself with the area.

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Iraqi Stories:

United States Division-North

Civil Affairs Soldiers Make Difference in Iraq

By Spc. Michael Adams

Spc. Mead Lyons (left) and Staff Sgt. Michael Clemency pose with Iraqi children in Sunini after a key leader engagement.

COB SPEICHER – Staff Sgt. Michael Clemency, will redeploy to the U.S. this spring. After he returns and in-processes, he'll arrive home just in time to be with his family for the birth of his niece. He looks forward to re-uniting with his own family, and sharing the stories of when he met and helped Iraqis and their families.

Clemency is a civil affairs specialist with the 422nd CAB attached to TF Marne. He spent his deployment meeting with village mayors throughout northern Iraq, to see how his bn could assist them with renovations and construction.

Clemency was on one of many Civil Affairs teams attached to the bdes assigned to TF Marne. His team worked in support of 1st Bn, 4th Cav Regt, 4th BCT, 1st ID. He worked primarily in the Sinjar area. The teams met with town mayors to determine what kind of amenities the city or town needed.

Projects ranged from street repairs to hospital renovations, but most of the time in his area of ops, the mayor's requested improvements to water pipes. All projects were completed by Iraqi contractors Clemency said.

"One of Civil Affairs' motto is 'win their hearts and minds,' and we did that," said Clemency. "I enjoyed talking to a lot of the people out there. I saw a lot of things. It's something I can take home and say I saw what was going on in Iraq."

Clemency also enjoyed getting to know the Iraqi people. "I enjoyed talking to the kids. They were really smart. You could learn a lot from them. I liked seeing the people happy. It felt good knowing that U.S. forces were there and helped Iraqis."

Sgt. James King worked on 2 different CAT teams, with the 4th IBCT, 1st ID. His team supervised more than 30 projects focused on rebuilding schools, wells, roadways, culverts and other infrastructure. The team covered areas all over northern Iraq, including areas close to the Syrian border. One project he's particularly proud of is a market streetlight project in Ba'aj. The project will provide for lights in the main market area for years to come. This not only provides an obvious increase in security during the evening hours, but also improves the economy, thanks to the businesses being able to stay open later, he said of the project.

His missions were hard work that required long drives sometimes through sandstorms, but in the end he knew the mission was worth it. "You can't help but like it," he said. "In the end, everybody likes to be a part of the rebuilding of an entire nation. At the end of this tour I'm looking back and going 'yeah, all those people have water because of what our team did' or 'hey, the next time somebody needs to be rushed to the hospital, they've a road to travel on because of us.' It's also the great feeling you get when the mayor of a local city, or a sheik, or a mukhtar shakes your hand and truly is thankful for the work we put in for his people."

Col. Rick Leonard commands the 422nd CA Bn. Lately he spends most of his time ensuring everything is in order for his unit to move back home. He said he's proud of his bn for the work they did for TF Marne. He added that his bn worked with local community leaders, broke down cultural barriers, gathered critical info to combat terrorism, and re-built 159 schools in the Ninewa prov. "The Soldiers out there were able to affect the communities in a positive way. I'm proud to be a part of that," Leonard said.

Sgt. Alison Lancewicz is a planning and coordination NCO with the bn attached to the Salah ad-Din PRT. At the PRT, she worked with Tikrit University students, where she helped them learn English. Many of the students want to learn English, so they can pass an English language test, that will allow them to transfer to a university in America.

"The best part was working with the students," said Lancewicz. "I made a couple of really good friends with a couple of students. When they come to school in America we plan on hanging out. That's the coolest part. When I get home I can say I was a part of rebuilding Iraq," she said. "The country has seen a lot of destruction, but I was a part of the construction."

Members of the bn also played a crucial part the TF's support to the Iraqi elections. Capt. Travis Montgomery is the plans officer for TF Marne G-9. He played a role in the Iraqi elections, facilitating what the guys on the ground were doing with the Iraqi elections. "It was hard work. I was the go-to guy for anyone on the ground for the chief of staff or comm. gen. To be that reliable, feels good."

Staff Sgt. Brent Allred, a supply sergeant, folds clothes to be given to local Iraqi children. Allred volunteered for the humanitarian mission, and the clothes were provided by an Arizona special education teacher.

Spc. Zandrast Rast, a supply clerk, talks to locals. Rast volunteered for the mission with her husband, who provided security.

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DVIDS

Vets Partner to Help Baghdad Zoo Animals

Story by Sgt. Phillip Valentine

Dr. Mewafak Raffo, a veterinary advisor assigned to 1st AR Div, U.S. Div-Center, draws blood from an ill tiger at the Baghdad Zoo, March 24, with the help of Iraqi zoo workers. U.S. forces and Iraqi zoo employees have worked together in the past, and will continue this trend to help create a better zoo for people to enjoy.

BAGHDAD – The call came in to Capt. Curt Degeyter that a 7-month-old male patient was presenting the symptoms of an unknown illness. He was acting sluggish, had limb weakness, tremors and showed signs of getting worse.

No one on location could find a diagnosis. If something was not done soon, the patient – a tiger at the Baghdad Zoo – might die. After receiving the call for help March 24, Degeyter, a doctor of veterinary medicine assigned to 1st AR Div, quickly made his own calls to other U.S. Army veterinarians to visit the zoo.

When Degeyter received the call, he said he remembered thinking, "I'm a doctor specializing in equine [horse family] medicine. I've never evaluated a tiger." Degeyter said he found the idea of getting into a cage interesting yet unnerving, but decided it was something he had to do.

Before he could go out and evaluate the tiger, however, he had to conduct some research. He poured over manuals, journals and various web sites to find the correct dosages for sedating a young tiger. Degeyter smiled. "A horse weighs quite a bit more than a tiger cub."

He also knew that there were other veterinary specialists around Victory Base Complex whom he could ask for help, so after making some calls, he found a vet who specializes in working with cats – house cats. Maj. Matt Takara, cmdr, 51st Medical Det Veterinary Medicine, 248th Medical Det. Veterinary Services, answered the call.

Takara said he jumped at the chance to work with the large cat. He had worked with house cats on several occasions, but this would be something completely different.

Degeyter suspected the tiger cub was suffering from a nutrient deficiency, meaning he wasn't getting the vitamins he needed to stay healthy. "The zoo started to feed the cub avian vitamins, and they saw an improvement," said Degeyter. "The avian vitamins are for birds, of course, but due to the unavailability of other vitamins, the zoo staff had to improvise."

He told the zoo staff to continue this treatment until lab results returned and a clearer diagnosis could be established. The plan to obtain those results, Degeyter said, was to sedate the animal, draw blood and send a sample to N. Carolina State University, a school that has a past relationship with the zoo. Another sample would be tested at VBC.

Once the procedure was complete, Takara conducted a head-to-tail inspection of the cub, which included looking inside the tiger's mouth while carefully avoiding the sleeping cat's large teeth. "I looked at the teeth and gum color, its boney structure, felt its belly, and checked the legs," said Takara. "It's just getting your hands on the entire cat to see if you can find anything abnormal."

When finished, they left the tiger to catnap and recover from the experience, but the veterinarians were not done. Another patient was also suspected of being ill; this time, a juvenile female lion, a very large, very ill-tempered patient pacing inside her cage.

Once sedated, the lioness went through the same process that the tiger cub had undergone. Extra care was taken in this case due to her size, and the possibility of her awakening and finding a bunch of humans inside her home.

The joint team of animal caregivers plan to continue searching for a diagnosis for the animals, and to get together again in the future whenever the need arises.

A sedated lion at the Baghdad Zoo has blood drawn by Iraqi zoo workers, as Maj. Matt Takara observes the procedure.

A sedated tiger cub gets a medical check-up from Dr. Mewafak Raffo, a veterinary advisor assigned to 1st AR Div, (Left) and Maj. Matt Takara. The zoo has been a program of partnership between Iraqi zoo workers and U.S. forces for the past few years.

The awaiting patient, an approx 7-month old tiger, stares intently at a veterinary team entering his domain.

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USF-I

IP capture suspected Baghdad AQI attack-cell member

BAGHDAD - IP and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for the suspected AQI member, believed to be part of an AQI cell responsible for assassinations and bank robberies in the region, March 28.

Preliminary questioning results and evidence collected during the op, led IP to identify and arrest the wanted individual.

BAMYAN PROVINCE – Members of TF Wolverine unload their gear at Kiwi Base, March 17. The primary mission of TF Wolverine will be to train and mentor members of the ANP.

Members of TF Cyclone help their replacements from TF Wolverine unload their gear. A small contingent of TF Wolverine will be replacing members of TF Cylcone.

New Zealand Chief of Staff Lt. Col. Peter Hall, and other members of the N.Z. PRT, give Soldiers of TF Wolverine, 86th IBCT, a brief after their arrival. TF Wolverine is made up of members of the Vermont and Delaware NG.

N.Z. PRT Command Sgt, 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, around Kiwi Base, their new home for the duration of their tour. TaF Wolverine will be replacing TF Cyclone in the next few weeks.

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DVIDS

CLB-6 FET Members Hit Streets of Helmand

(Photos by Lance Cpl. Yahaira Cosme)

HELMAND PROVINCE - Cpl. Monica Boucher, 23, a field radio operator with Combat Logistics Bn 6, MEB-A, mingles with a group of Afghan children during her first Female Engagement Team mission, Feb. 26. Boucher spent approx a week aboard COP Shur, where she assisted the Marines of Fox Co, 2nd Bn, 2nd Marine Regt by making friendly contact with female residents.

In addition to their daily duties within CLB 6, Cpl. Monica Boucher (left), and Lance Cpl. Yahaira Cosme, a 22-year-old warehouseman, returned from their first mission March 3. The pair worked to establish rapport with the local female population.

Lance Cpl. Yahaira Cosme offers a piece of candy to a young Afghan villager. This was Cosme's first mission since graduating from FET Course 01-10 in Jan.

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DVIDS

Farah Hospital Feeding Program and Reconstruction Efforts

Photo by 2nd Lt. Karl Wiest

FARAH PROVINCE - The Farah Provincial Health Dir., Mr. Jabar, provides a tour of the Farah City Hospital for the newly arrived doctors and engrs assigned to the Farah PRT, March 20. The engrs assigned to the PRT are looking into enhancing the water and septic systems located at the hospital, at the request of Jabar. Also, during their visit the PRT doctors got a chance to watch the Farah doctors in action, as they hosted a session of their Supplemental Feeding Program. The feeding program, which is run by the staff at the Farah Hospital, is designed to supplement the diet of many young Afghan boys and girls, ranging in age from infant to adolescent, who are unable to consume a proper nutritional diet, and who are considered to be significantly underweight.

Standing in front of the supplies required to support the Farah Supplemental Feeding Program that he oversees, Dr. Ghani, a nutrition specialist at the Farah City Hospital, discusses the progress the program has made with Lt. Cmdr. Ron Purcell, an internal medicine physician. Currently, there are 80 children enrolled in the program, but there are many other Afghan mothers who would like to get their children involved. Each week members of the Farah Hospital staff make "peanut balls" which are the cornerstone of the program. The peanut balls are a combination of peanuts, powdered milk, white sugar, cooking oil, and multi-vitamins that are systematically mixed together to ultimately create a sweet tasting and substantial dietary supplement, designed to be taken every day. Each dose fulfills patients' daily requirements for Vitamins A, B-complex, C, D, calcium, iron and folate.

Zarilla, an 8-year-old Afghan girl, who is a patient in the Farah Supplemental Feeding Program, is weighed and measured by Dr. Noori to determine her progress. The Farah medical staff recommends that the children receive the supplement 4 to 5 times each day, and say that the balls can be thinned out with water, combined with other foods, or simply even used as a spread over bread. If a child in the program receives his or her proper servings of the supplement as prescribed, results should be clear within the first 30 days of participating, and the child should begin to gain weight.

Abdul Jabar welcomes Cmdr. Adam Armstrong, the new cmdr of the Farah PRT Medical Dept, and explains his plans for increasing access to quality medical care for everyone in the prov.

Mohammad Faizi, the head nurse at the Farah City Hospital, details the fresh water and plumbing issues the hospital is facing, to Navy Chief Petty Officer Sean Walters, an engr assigned to the Farah PRT. At the request of the Farah Provincial Health Dir., the PRT is evaluating what assistance they can provide, in order to augment the hospital's current water system.

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CJTF 82 Public Affairs, Bagram Media Center

Mujahedeen protect PRT base

By Army Staff Sgt. Donald Reeves

A mujahedeen guard keeps watch during the Panjshir PRT transfer of authority, March 9. Many of the elite mujahedeen SECFOR that protect FOB Lion fought against both the Soviets and the Taliban to keep their valley secure. Now they work alongside the PRT to provide security for the rebuilding of governance and infrastructure in the Panjshir prov.

PANJSHIR PROVINCE - The fierceness of the fighters and the security of the valley have allowed FOB Lion to be one of the few, if not only, bases in Afghanistan guarded solely by ASF. Panjshir prov. has been a center of resistance for Afghanistan. The people of Panjshir pushed back the Soviets in the 1980s, and resisted Taliban rule in the 1990s.

FOB Lion draws its SECFOR from a group of fighters known as the mujahedeen. The name comes from the Arabic word for “one who struggles,” and is often used to refer to Islamic fighters from all different sects around the world. FOB Lion houses the Panjshir PRT. This U.S. multi-service and civilian team works with the local govt on strengthening Panjshir’s security, governance, and reconstruction. Having a local guard allows them to move about the prov. freely and accomplish their work.

Jamie Bowman, a civilian member of the PRT, travels about the prov. in her job as a field development officer. Her team never goes far without an interpreter and a mujahedeen guard. She touted the professionalism of the SECFOR. “They're always alert,” she said. “They're always attentive to what they have to do.”

All of the mujahedeen guards are from the area. They're specially selected by the provincial gov., and rely on a tight-knit community to keep the peace. Ahmad Jan, 1 of 2 team leaders of the mujahedeen guard force said through an interpreter, “The provincial govt all know us, and they picked us to be here. All of the guards that they have here are from different districts of this prov., not from other provs.” Being part of the community allows the guards to spot anything out of the ordinary. “Most of the guards know about 80% of the population,” said Jan. “We are tired of the Taliban,” said Jan. “Our people don’t want them here.

AF Tech. Sgt. Lawrence McKnight, in charge of security at the FOB, has been won over completely. McKnight has worked closely with the mujahedeen on security issues concerning the base. “These guys would get in front of a bullet for you,” he said. The mujahedeen have accepted the PRT as their extended family.

Two mujahedeen guards keep watch during the Panjshir PRT transfer of authority.

Ahmed Jan is a team leader of an elite SECFOR made up of local nationals.

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CJTF 82 Public Affairs, Bagram Media Center

Joint meeting keeps RC-East up to date

By Army Sgt. Troy Johnson

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – Leaders from Combined Joint TF–82 listen and advise during a joint situation meeting, March 23. The meeting is held regularly to keep leaders from ISAF and ANSF informed of events, and provide face-to-face interaction on matters within Afghanistan’s Regional Command-East.

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Iraqi Stories:

Blackanthem Military News

Op 'Bright Eagle' sheds light on enemy safe havens

(Photos by Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone Marshall)

IP assigned to the Emergency Response and Rapid Deployment Units stand by during cold-load training in the rear of a CH-47D Chinook helicopter, prior to an insertion at COB Danger, near Tikrit, Feb. 25.

The partnered air assault inserted ISF and U.S. forces into 3 objectives in Salah ad-Din prov. According to Lt. Col. Robert Cain, cmdr, 2/32 FA, the mission, termed "Op Bright Eagle," was to deny enemy networks ability to disrupt Provincial elections, by confiscating unauthorized weapons and interdicting suspected terrorists. By all accounts, Bright Eagle accomplished its objectives.

"The IP captured 22 individuals during the Op. Additionally, IP from the ERU and RDU worked together, not only to develop their own plan, but to also execute quite a large scale op successfully," said Lt. Col. Cain.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Owen Connors, is a CH-47D Chinook helicopter pilot with Co. B, 3/25th GSAB, and was one of several pilots who inserted troops into the objectives. Conners was quick to recognize the importance of the mission, in furthering the partnership between U.S. and ISF."Again, all we did was help. We provided the lift capability, and 2/32 FA Soldiers showed them how valuable the use of helicopters can be. The actual 'boots on the ground' part was all Iraqis."

Captain Robert Beale, cmdr, Co. B., 3/25th GSAB, TF Hammerhead, elaborated on the importance of continuing to engage ISF in partnered air assaults. "We're setting conditions for the Iraq military and IP to provide their own security, and enable them to further establish and develop their own democracy," said Capt. Beale. "They're definitely moving in the right direction, not only with our assistance, but also with help other CF have provided the past couple of years. The ISF are on the right track."

IP and Soldiers from Co B rehearse exiting a CH-47D Chinook helicopter prior to an insertion at COB Danger.

FOB WARRIOR, KIRKUK - ISF, with assistance from 1st AR Div soldiers out of Fort Bliss, Texas, conducted a joint op that resulted in the arrest of 5 suspected terrorists near Kirkuk, March 22.

All of the alleged terrorists captured during the patrol are currently being detained by ISF. One of the captured individuals is suspected of coordinating an attack on a JSS, and is wanted for his involvement with an IED cell.

The Ninewa govt, with assistance from the 130th Engr Bde's Ninewa Reconstruction Cell (NRC), is building a plan for the future of the Iraqi prov. Instead of several small construction projects, the Ninewa provincial govt is working on a vision statement. The goal of this statement is to focus on the future, long-term effects of all civil projects, and ensure they benefit the prov. as a whole.

The planning effort, known as 'Ninewa 2030,' was conceived by the 130th Eng. Bde.'s NRC, and briefed to the provincial Gov. Nujaifi. Since that time, the GoI has formed a committee which organized the Initial Planning Conference. The IPC was held in January 2010, and a follow-on conference is scheduled for May.

The hope is to eventually pair a U.S. advisor with each of the 9 planning groups, and assist them as needed, according to Capt. Holly Grey, the engagements officer with the NRC. Ninewa 2030 merges the knowledge of Army Engrs with the GoI's future growth and development of the prov.

Based on statistics collected, the GoI is better able to determine where projects are needed most and prioritize projects, said 1st Lt. Nathan Neuman, Co. D, 401st Civil Affairs "Team 5" leader, who is attached to the 130th Eng. Bde. With the condition of some of the equipment currently supporting the Ninewa prov., it's easy to see why these construction efforts are needed. According to reports from Iraqis working with the NRC, some areas of Ninewa are supported by water pumps that were installed by the British in the early 1900s. By replacing these outdated systems, the provincial govt makes significant strides toward a flourishing and thriving prov., one that will continue to improve decades after the U.S. Army has withdrawn its troops.

However, merely installing and constructing new projects is not the final step in city building. Citizens must be trained on the proper use and maintenance of the equipment. The NRC realizes this and has offered their assistance in the training of Iraqi citizens.

This is the ultimate goal of Ninewa 2030. By creating a vision statement and outlining the focus of construction efforts throughout the prov., Iraqis will be better equipped to build and maintain sustainable systems for decades to come. This will encourage future growth and development. A step in the right direction, which should encourage the future citizens of Ninewa to stay in the area.

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United States Forces - Iraq

Fallujah SWAT arrests suspected weapons facilitator and AQI member

RAMADI - A suspected AQI weapons facilitator was arrested March 24 by the Fallujah SWAT unit, during a joint security op, with U.S. advisors, conducted in Fallujah. The suspect is believed to be linked to the smuggling of weapons and IED making materials in support of AQI ops.

He was recently named a possible planner in the VBIED attacks in Baghdad that killed 147, and wounded more than 700 people in October 2009. The attacks, the deadliest in 2 years, targeted and destroyed 3 govt buildings in central Baghdad: the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Public Works and the Baghdad governor's office.

Fallujah SWAT confiscated multiple weapons and ammo, including armor piercing bullets as well as passports, satellite receivers, license plates, electronic circuits, a battery tester, a camera, various documents, and an IA uniform.

PANJSHIR PROVINCE - A check of critical equipment reveals a radio, M-4 rifle, sunscreen, fishing hat and fishing pole. Army Master Sgt. Chad Rhinehart prepares to go fishing with his Afghan counterparts to celebrate the Afghan holiday of Nowrūz (New Year), March 21. Rhinehart, who enjoys fishing near his duty station of Fort Bragg, N.C, is currently deployed as part of Panjshir PRT. The province is considered a “model” of security, and allows for freedom of movement throughout the area.

Army Spc. Lee Kwait teaches an Afghan soldier how to fish with a rod and reel. Kwait is deployed as a civil affairs specialist.

Army Sgt. Matthew Ryan celebrates the Afghan holiday by going fishing in the Panjshir River, with his Afghan counterparts. Ryan also enjoys fishing near his duty station of Fort Dix, N.J.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Soldiers celebrate Afghan New Year in Sangay festivities

Army 1st Lt. James Ferguson, a fire support officer with Co A, 3rd Bn, 187th Inf Regt, 3rd BCT, 101st Abn Div, poses with a horse in Sharana city, March 21, during the New Year’s sangay festivities.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE - The Soldiers of "Angel" Co joined local leaders from Sharana city for a New Year's feast, followed by a performance by Afghan folk dancers, March 20. The following day the Soldiers joined about 600 of Sharana's citizens for Sangay festivities.

Sangay is a competition in which men attempt to dislodge a spike from the ground with a spear, while at full gallop on horseback, said Capt. Matthew Sraj, 3-187 INF spokesman. "The people of Sharana City feel safe and are confident in the capabilities of the ANSF and CF in the area," said Capt. Josh Powers, Co. A cmdr. "The entire city is celebrating the New Year, and shows little concern for enemy activity."

A sangay competitor uses a spear to try and dislodge a spike from the ground.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Visit to Disabled Children’s Center Brings Smiles

By Army Spc. Charles Thompson

BAMYAN PROVINCE – New Zealand Army Col. Martin Dransfield, N.Z. PRT cmdr, speaks to a group of students at the Disabled Children’s Center in Bamyan city, Feb. 28. The N.Z. PRT visits many local schools and orgs giving out toys, and other things the children need.

U.S. Army Maj. Jill Henderson, a nurse with the 30th Medical Command, plays volleyball with a student.

After an afternoon of soccer and hanging out, N.Z. Army Col. Dransfield, says good-bye to the students.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Provincial leadership improves healthcare in Paktika

By AF 2nd Lt. Mark Lazane

Lt. j.g. Vince Lopez, Paktika PRT medical officer, looks at a medical chart for a sick child with Dr. Baseer, public health advisor for Paktika prov., March 22. Lopez was given a tour of the Sharana hospital to view completed projects, and receive an update regarding future hospital plans, as well as scheduling staff training for new equipment. Paktika PRT’s mission is to help legitimize the GoA through development, governance and agricultural initiatives. Lopez is deployed from Naval Clinic, Patuxent River Maryland.

(Photo by AF Master Sgt. Demetrius Lester)

PAKTIKA PROVINCE -- “We have good healthcare for the facilities and equipment that we have,” said Dr. Baseer, a surgeon by trade. “The problem is we lack a lot of the specialty services that hospitals in Kabul and other places have. We enjoy working with the GoA and the PRT to make some of our goals become realities.”

Baseer and Dr. Gul, dir. of Public Health for the prov., haven't been in their positions long. However, their org. and knowledge of medical practices are changing the landscape of healthcare throughout the prov., especially at this hospital in the center of the city, Lopez said.

The Strong Foods and Clean Water programs, both funded by the PRT, have produced rapid and highly-measurable results, because they're easy to implement and have low overhead, Baseer said. The success of these programs in Paktika, has led to the expansion of the program to several areas throughout the prov.

Baseer also praised the dedication that his workers show for their patients. “Our basic healthcare is equal to if not better than the healthcare in the surrounding provs., including Khost, Ghazni and Paktya,” Baseer said. “The workers do their best to provide for their patients.”

The ultimate goal for Sharana Hospital is to be the showcase medical facility for Paktika prov., and the surrounding regions, Baseer said. “There’s really no good reason that this hospital can’t develop into the type of place that can handle any patient that comes through their doors,” Baseer said. “In the future, I want to have a hospital here where we don’t have to transfer anyone to Kabul for a higher level of care. We want to have the money, the infrastructure and the incentive for the many specialists to come here to work, because they know of what a good facility we have developed.”

This future is possible with advisers such as Baseer at the helm, Lopez said. “Dr. Baseer seems to be truly committed to the future of healthcare in this prov.,” said Lopez. “He’s very professional and really cares about the Afghan people.”

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American Forces Press Service

Forces Capture Insurgents, Seize Weapons

(Compiled from ISAF Joint Command news releases)

In Nangarhar, March 23, Afghan/ISAF searched a compound in a rural area of the Khogyani district after intel info indicated militant activity there, and captured a Taliban sub-cmdr involved in kidnappings, weapons purchases and recon of CF. The security force also detained another insurgent after he and another man approached the force. One of the armed men was killed after he rushed the force, ignoring demands to surrender, and pointed a weapon at them. The other insurgent surrendered.

Afghan-ISAF captured several suspected insurgents in Marjah, Helmand prov., after searching a compound where intel indicated militant activity. An ISAF patrol found a weapons cache in Helmand's Nad-e Ali district, containing 6 66 mm rockets, 7 40 mm rounds, an unidentified warhead, and an IED consisting of 6 82 mm mortar rounds, March 24. The same day, an ISAF patrol in the Nawah-ye Barakzai district found 5 RPGs, a mortar round and 24 cases of small-arms ammo.

Afghan/ISAF captured an IED facilitator and several other suspected insurgents, March 22 SW of Lashkar Gah.

Afghan/ISAF in the Qarah Bagh district of Ghazni prov., March 25, captured a Taliban cmdr connected with foreign-fighter facilitation, buying and moving weapons, and directing attacks against coalition troops. Another militant also was captured in the op. In another op, 2 IEDs were found in Ghazni's Muqer district. The 1st device consisted of a directional mine with 15 lbs of homemade explosives, and the 2nd consisted of 3 mortar grenades with more than 40 lbs of homemade explosives.

In Khost prov., March 24, a combined force in the Terezayi district captured 2 Taliban sub-cmdrs believed to be closely involved with intel gathering, kidnappings, attacks on CF, and arranging for the construction of vehicle-borne bombs. The force also captured several other insurgents and recovered a large amount of money during the op.

A joint Afghan Border Police and ISAF operational base in the Bak district came under attack by insurgents March 24, and the unit returned fire.

Afghan-ISAF in the Arghandab district of Kandahar prov., March 24 captured a Taliban facilitator believed to be responsible for the delivery, storage and distribution of weapons, and to be involved in delivering explosive materials and bomb components to various Taliban networks. The targeted facilitator identified himself, and several other insurgents also were captured. In another op, a combined force stopped 2 motorcycles and detained 2 suspected militants.

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Iraqi Stories:

Air Cav Infantry Soldiers Compete in Company Challenge

(Photos by Sgt. Travis Zielinski)

CAMP TAJI - As the sun rises, Soldiers from Co F, 3rd Bn, 227th Aviation Regt, 1st ACB, 1st Cav Div, U.S. Div Center, make their way through an obstacle course, March 23. The 2nd of 8 events the Soldiers were required to work together, in order to complete all of the challenges.

Trying to get a quick time through the obstacle course, Soldiers from Co F, form 'steps' with their bodies to get over a wooden barrier. The Soldiers were tested physically and mentally throughout the day.

After running with water containers to add stress and fatigue, Sgt. Isaac Haseley, a squad leader in Co F, earns points for his team by accurately shooting targets. The challenge was designed to test their skills as infantrymen, and enjoy a little friendly competition.

Sgt. Luis Garcia (background), a squad leader, prepares himself before replacing his teammate on the pull-up portion of a modified physical fitness test. Soldiers in the co. competed in a team-based challenge to show their physical readiness, technical knowledge and their ability to work together.

In a timed event, Spc. Sean Kuttner (right), a grenadier, and Sgt. Eric Stoodley, a team leader, put their medical knowledge to the test on a simulated casualty.

In a rural area NE of Baghdad March 24, an Iraqi ERU and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspect believed to work closely with AQI leaders in Diyala prov., to supply weapons and explosives to fellow terrorist-group members. Police arrested a suspected criminal associate of the wanted man.

In eastern Mosul, March 24, Iraqi soldiers and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspected AQI member who allegedly is involved in oil-company extortion. The Iraqi soldiers arrested 12 suspected criminal assocs of the wanted man.

In NE Mosul March 24, Iraqi soldiers and U.S. advisors conducted an op targeting a suspected AQI member, believed to be involved in managing financial affairs for the terrorist org. While securing a building to be searched, the security team was fired upon by an individual with a handgun. The team fired back and killed him. The gunman later was identified as the wanted man. Iraqi soldiers also arrested a suspected criminal assoc. of the man.

In an op March 25, in a rural area SW of Kirkuk, IP and U.S. advisors captured a suspected AQI leader who is believed to be involved with coordinating assassinations and vehicle-borne bombing attacks.

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USF-I

Suspected Baghdad AQI leader killed in joint security operation

BAGHDAD - The suspected AQI sharia emir for Baghdad was killed March 26, during a joint security op conducted in northern Baghdad. Acting upon a warrant issued by an Iraqi judge, ISF and U.S. advisors searched 2 residential buildings for Sinan, also known as Mohammad Rahman Salim Muhaymid al-Ani, a suspected AQI sharia emir, who is believed to be one of the primary approval authorities for AQI attacks and assassinations in the Baghdad region.

Prior to searching the building, the joint security team directed those inside to exit in an orderly fashion. One of the individuals within the building failed to adhere to directions, and instead fled to the rooftop and jumped to an adjacent building. The individual eventually made his way to the ground and hid in a stairwell. Realizing he was surrounded, he initially approached the security team as if to surrender. However, as the individual neared the security team, he lunged at a security team member and attempted to wrestle away the guard's firearm. In response to this immediate threat, other security team members shot the individual, who died at the scene. The dead individual was later identified as the warranted AQI leader.

Following preliminary questioning and an initial examination of evidence at the scene, ISF arrested 3 suspected criminal accomplices.

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USF-I

ISF capture suspected Abu Ghraib AQI leader

BAGHDAD - ISF captured a suspected AQI leader for the Abu Ghraib region during a joint security op conducted March 26, in Abu Ghraib, located approx 22 km west of Baghdad.

ISF and U.S. advisors searched a residential building for the suspected AQI leader. The wanted individual is believed to have been involved in planning multiple coordinated VBIED attacks against the GoI, several of which have taken place in the capital city. Evidence and info collected during the security op led ISF to identify and arrest the wanted AQI leader.

Forward Surgical Team first to respond at FOB Orgun-E. Afghans leading with American help, is the way forward. TF Mountain Warrior run for St. Patrick's Day. Taking to the airwaves in Paktika. Forces detain suspected militants, seize weapons.

Army Capt. Jessica Schwinck, advanced trauma life support officer-in-charge with the 541st Forward Surgical Team (FST), assesses a local Afghan 5-month-old with abdominal distension at the FOB Orgun-E aid station, March 19.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – Burns, shrapnel wounds, and gunshot wounds: If Soldiers can be injured in combat, the 541st FST can fix them. The team is the first to respond once the patient is brought to FOB Orgun-E. Whether U.S. Soldiers, Afghan uniformed service-members, or Afghan civilians, the FST moves quickly into action, treating any injury a patient suffers.

Seeing a lot of trauma patients, the FST’s primary focus is to, “get a patient who is injured stabilized, and sent up to the next level of care,” said 1st Lt. Lloyd Mason, 541st FST EO. “This is a very unique set-up,” Mason said. “In this one building we have a FST and also an aid station, which you don’t normally see.”

An FST consists of about 20 Soldiers, and key members of the team at Orgun-E include surgeons, nurses, medics, and other medical specialists. “Whatever comes through the door, we see them first,” said Capt. Jessica Schwinck, 541st FST ATLS officer-in-charge.

Both Mason and Schwinck said that it's gratifying in knowing that they're helping the people that come through the doors of the FST. “I went to Iraq in 2004 and that’s where I learned to really like trauma nursing, so that’s why I became an emergency nurse,” Schwinck said. “I really enjoy this job, being able to put people back together.”

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Afghans leading with American help is the way forward

By AF 2nd Lt. Jason Smith

AF Tech. Sgt. Lawrence McKnight, Panjshir PRT, meets with ANA Col. Khan to discuss security matters at the Panjshir Ops Coordination Center (Provincial), March 17. An OCCP is an emergency response center that coordinates the efforts of the ANA, ANP, National Directorate of Security, and ISAF. (Photos by Army Staff Sgt. Donald Reeves)

PANJSHIR PROVINCE — ANA Col. Khan, who fought the Russians, al-Qaida and the Taliban, says America’s presence in Afghanistan is crucial to its future stability.

Khan has no difficulty pointing out 2 major differences between the American war fighters who arrived in his country, and the Russian soldiers he spent so many years fighting. He said the Americans respect his religion, and they're here to help the people rather than control the country.

“The Russians had no religion and interfered with our religion,” said Khan. “One time there was Khalifa who began to pray. The Russian officer laughed about it and said he could ‘hear a donkey crying.’ He would compare our prayer to a donkey crying. We had to fight them.”

“In Afghanistan, religion is the biggest issue,” said Khan. “If a non-Muslim searches the home of a Muslim, then it’s a problem. It’s not a problem for one Muslim to search another Muslim. That’s why I want ANA to do the searches and do the fighting. The Coalition should only help. I want 100% cooperation and confidence between the ANA, ANP, NDS and ISAF,” said Khan. “But, all of the fighting should be done by the ANA, not ISAF or Americans. The ANA know the area and how to fight here.”

In addition to doing the fighting, Khan says the ANA has a duty to protect ISAF from those who would want to do them harm. Khan talked about the first major incident the OCCP had to handle. It involved an IED detonating near a vehicle operated by American members of the Panjshir PRT.

“It was a rare event for Panjshir to have something like this happen. It was shameful to all Panjshiris,” said Khan. “I was actually at FOB Lion when it happened. It brought shame to us because we’re responsible to keep the PRT secure.”

When asked if he's worried about Taliban or al-Qaida fighters trying to take revenge on him for working with CF, Khan said he isn’t at all afraid of them. “I fought al-Qaida 10 years ago,” said Khan smiling confidently. “Why should I care about them now?”

The future of Afghanistan can only be positive if America stays involved, says Khan. “My answer will not be liked,” said Khan. “The future of Afghanistan depends on the cooperation between America and what the rest of the world is doing here. America and ISAF can bring a good govt which will help the people.”

Also, it’s the govt’s responsibility to use money to help the people, said Khan. “The people who're fighting now are jobless,” said Khan. “A man who has a job to support his family is too busy to spend his time fighting. The enemy can’t benefit from people having other ways to support their families.”

Khan said he’s not worried about making rank in his current position. He says his goal in life is, and has always been, to help his fellow Afghans have security, peace and a way to make a respectable living.

ANA Ops Officer, Maj. Aziz, monitors the radio at the Panjshir OCCP.

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Blackanthem Military News

TF Mountain Warrior run for St. Patrick's Day

By Army Pfc. Beth Raney

Service members and civilians serving under TF Mountain Warrior sprint from the starting line to begin running a 3-1/2 mile race in honor of St. Patrick's Day on FOB Fenty, March 13.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE - Over 200 people participated in the run, including Soldiers from the 4th BCT, 4th ID, out of Fort Carson, Colo. The first 3 males, first 3 females, and first 3 five-man teams were awarded for their achievement.

Capt. Frank Guasta, Lt. Col. Thomas VonEschenvach, 1st Lt. Joshua Taft, Spc. John Steigenberger, and Capt. Jonathan Erwin, all from the 3rd Sqdrn, 17th Cav Regt, were the runners that made up the winning team, Team Lighthorse. The last runner on the team came in at 23 min., 12 sec.

Local businesses in the Colorado Springs area donated Irish-themed T-shirts, gift certificates, necklaces and hats for those who participated in the run. The runners wore the accessories with pride.

Three Army Soldiers run across the finish line.

An Army Soldier and a civilian, race across the finish line.

Service members and civilians group together with the "Jalalabad Jig" banner after running the race.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Taking to the Airwaves in Paktika

By Army Maj. S. Justin Platt

"Sharana Radio in a Box" DJ Mr. Norijan, left, interviews Paktika Prov. Dir. of Ed. spokesman Shahzada Mahmom, about education initiatives in Paktika prov., on FOB Sharana, March 18. The interview was the first in a series of question and answer sessions, planned over the next year to help citizens of Paktika prov. understand key govt programs available in the area.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – Paving the way for success in the Afghan New Year, the people of Paktika prov., heard the voice of their local govt. Paktika prov. has 333 schools, with 10 under construction, said Mahmon. Of these schools, 37 are closed because of threats from the Taliban, he added.

Despite the school closures, the total student enrollment of the prov. is a little more than 121,000, with almost 20,000 female students, said Mahmom. The school system as been successful so far in maintaining a 37:1 student-teacher ratio, comparable to many school districts in the U.S., he said.

According to Army Capt. Matt Sraj, who oversees radio ops in Paktika, this interview is the first in a series of programs aimed at connecting the people with their govt in a widely-accessible format. Radio is the most-effective way to reach the people, because of the low literacy rate.

“In Western Paktika, the literacy rate is currently well under five%. Therefore, most of the population receives their info from one of two ways: word of mouth or radio broadcasts. By bringing the Afghan govt leaders onto the radio the people not only receive info on what their govt is doing, but it also gives local govt the opportunity to get their message directly to the people, ensuring that the info is not altered,” Sraj said.

Over the next year, Paktika’s line directors and leaders plan to participate in RIAB broadcasts covering healthcare, agricultural and economic development, as well as present info on the elections, Sraj said.

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American Forces Press Service

Forces Detain Suspected Militants, Seize Weapons

KABUL, March 23, 2010 - Afghan and ISAF detained several suspected militants, including a Taliban cmdr, and seized weapons in ops around Afghanistan March 22, military officials reported.

-- Afghan/ISAF captured a Taliban cmdr in Helmand prov's Reg-e Khan Meshin district, near Marjah. He's believed to be responsible for placing IEDs and for the movement of militant personnel and weapons to various insurgent networks. The team also found a large amount of cash on the Taliban facilitator.

-- Also in Helmand, a combined SECFOR detained a few suspected insurgents for further questioning in Nad-e Ali district, near Marja. Also in the district, a cache containing nearly 100 lbs of raw opium, an AK-47 rifle and ammo, 4 30 mm rounds, and a bag of electronic components were discovered.

-- Afghan/ISAF detained several suspected militants for further questioning in Khost's Sabari district.

-- In Uruzgan prov's Tarin Kot district, an ISAF patrol found several ammo caches in close proximity to each other, containing a mortar round, 1,000 rounds of small-arms ammo, and a 1 kg bag of homemade explosive.

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Iraqi Stories:

DVIDS

Drawdown: Colorado troops leave Ramadi

By Spc. Mike MacLeod

The 3rd Bn, 157th FA of the Colorado NG stand in formation at a color-casing ceremony marking the end of their deployment to Ramadi, March 19, 2010.

CAMP RAMADI – As the responsible drawdown of U.S. forces from here continues, a Colorado NG bn cased its colors as the latest unit to end its mission in the once-restive Anbar prov.

Lt. Col. Al Morris, cmdr of 3rd Bn, 157th FA, addressed Soldiers of 1st Bde, 82nd Abnne Div (Advise and Assist), under whom his unit fell, the Anbar PRT, the cmdr of the 1st Iraqi Quick Response Force Bde, and the Soldiers of his bn, who were packed and ready to leave by helicopter once the ceremony concluded.

"Like many others during this time of transition, we performed a different mission than artillery, for which many of us have spent our careers training," said Morris, in a speech. "While we didn't trade in our swords for ploughshares, it allowed our efforts to be directed toward the reconstruction of this great nation, and sending our countrymen and women home, as we leave knowing we've done our part during the War on Terror," he said.

During their deployment, 3-157th FA conducted more than 400 escort missions, 2,000 base patrols, operated Camp Ramadi's gates and housing, and oversaw its defense. Soldiers drove more than 41,000 miles on missions.

Morris said he appreciated 1/82 AAB cmdr Col. Mark Stammer's hands-off approach, that gave the bn great freedom to accomplish their mission, and for the outpouring of support, when the bn's only casualty, Sgt. Martin May was wounded by sniper fire last year.

The Colorado NG unit traces its lineage back to the Civil War, and was part of the division that saw the most days of combat by any division in World War II.

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DVIDS

49th MP Bde donates riot equipment to Iraqi Police

By Spc. Edward Siguenza

With Soldiers from the 49th MP Bde providing security, an IP officer unloads cases of donated civil disturbance equipment, outside of Camp Liberty in early March, 2010. The 49th donated the riot control gear to a section of the Baghdad Police Force.

CAMP LIBERTY – When Staff Sgt. Victor Rae recently visited this camp's warehouse for supplies, he found unused equipment he knew could be put to better use. "I know this is what the IP need. They don't have it," said Rae, with the 49th MP Bde’s PTT. "It's surplus riot gear that we use to train our MP. We've moved on. We have more advanced gear now, so we're going to give this to our partners, the IP."

More than 700 lbs of batons, helmets, shields and body padding were delivered. IP met Rae and the 49th's security team just outside of Camp Liberty, where the equipment was transferred to 2 Iraqi vehicles.

This is one of several things the 49th has done in its OIF deployment that began in October, said Sgt. 1st Class Arne Eastlund, the 49th's PTT NCO-in-charge. To its best abilities, the PTT has provided IP with training, training facilities, equipment and other necessities for their ops.

"Right now the IP have the toughest job in Iraq, if not the world," Eastlund said. "There's a lot relying on them to stabilize their country. We're doing our best to help them accomplish that."

While loading, an IP picked up a helmet and tried it on. His partners applauded when the officer gave the thumbs-up sign. "Thank you, thank you," he said in broken English. "Thank you America."

"They're very appreciative. You can tell this was something they can use, because they just don't have enough," said Rae. "I think it's great we can provide them some protection. The majority of these guys have families and they do have a tough job. They need our help and we're doing the best we can."

COB Q-WEST -- Before dawn, March 17, Tenn. Soldiers from HET, 1st Sqdrn, 278th ACR with the 13th ESC were out performing inspections on their vehicles and preparing for a long convoy south.

"Our mission over the next 4 days is really threefold," said Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Butler. "Initially, this trip was laid on so that the cmdr and I could attend the 15th Sust Bde's command conference at JBB, but it also became a trip of opportunity to visit our Assault Troop and Destroyer Troop, as well as evaluate Engineer Troop, who is our means of travel."

In order to better accomplish the 278th ACR's mission, Assault Troop and Destroyer Troop were attached to other sqdrs. With Assault Troop at COB Taji, and Destroyer Troop at JBB, both are performing convoy security missions for their newly assigned sqdrns.

"Since being assigned to 2nd Sqdrn, our Soldiers have been running missions as far north as Speicher and south to Adder, just north of the Kuwait border. Our Soldiers have performed extremely well in difficult circumstances, and have adjusted to the requirements of night ops," said 1st Lt. Patrick McGrail, cmdr of Destroyer Troop.

"Our Troopers have really adapted well and are running convoy missions at a consistently high tempo, since joining Regimental Troops Sqdrn at Taji. They've been running missions from Southern Iraq to the North border," said 1st Sgt. Jesse Ewer, 1st sgt for Assault Troop.

"My responsibility as a Truck Cmdr (TC) for the cmdr means always having the equipment and crew ready to go. I'm trained on the duties of the TC, Gunner and Driver. I also assist with planning and coordination with the unit we're accompanying," said Sgt. 1st Class Jeromy Edwards, a TC in HQ, 1/278th ACR.

"Engineer Troop had the lead in this mission. From the mission brief delivered by the convoy cmdr 1st Lt. Kenneth McDevitt to the intel info briefed by Spc. Joshua Hargrove, Engr Troop did an excellent job. The cmdr and I expected nothing less," said Butler.

Engineer Troop, like so many other troops in 1/278th ACR, has a plethora of seasoned combat warriors with multiple deployments. With that experience also comes the responsibility to lead and develop younger Soldiers.

Truck Cmdr Sgt. Mancel Fincher is seeing deployment from a different seat this time. On his last deployment he was in the Gunner's turret or the Driver's seat, but as a TC, he now focuses on the safety and training of his crew, Pfc. William Archie, his Driver, and Pfc. Zachery Johnson, his gunner. Staying on top of truck maintenance is also critical, as repairs were need while out on this mission. Luckily, Destroyer Troop was able to help out their fellow troop with a few repairs, and a tire change while the convoy was at Ballad.

After 4 days of being on the road with several stops at multiple military locations, Engr Troop returned to COL Q-West safely with the command staff, March 20, and the "threefold" mission was completed without incident.

COB Q-WEST -- March madness is here and the 2113th Transportation Co from Paducah, Ky., is at COB Q-West, but that hasn't hindered these Kentucky Army NG Soldiers from watching their beloved Kentucky Wildcats, and showing they're true blue no matter how far they are from the Bluegrass.

"For the games that weren't televised in Iraq, I had my wife Jenifer put the web cam on our TV at home, so our guys could watch it on my computer. At the same time, we had the score streaming and the University of Kentucky commentators on CBSSports.com. The funny thing was each source was seconds apart, so we were cheering 3 different times for the same play. We would see the streaming score, hear the commentators, and then see the play. It was great," said Spc. David Cavitt, the 2113th TC's armor and weapons expert.

The 2113th TC is attached to 1st Sqdrn, 278th ACR HQ in Henderson, Tenn., but that Tennessee connection has certainly not swayed the loyalty of these Wildcat fans. They're brothers-in-arms on missions; still yet, after the mission, Kentucky basketball reigns supreme in the hearts and minds of 2113th TC Soldiers.

Kentucky Soldiers have even adopted wearing blue reflective belts to show their loyalty to the Cats. As a tribute to Kentucky's SEC Championship, the Soldiers even organized and videoed their version of the Wall Dance. John Wall, the standout freshman for Kentucky this year, pulled out some dance moves at Midnight Madness, and those moves became the Wall Dance. With the Wall Dance now in Iraq, it has now gone international.

The basketball season is coming to a close and Kentucky Soldiers are anxious to see their Cats hang another banner in Rupp Arena. With the large time difference and games coming on later, Cavitt and his section of guys say they'll be taking a nap and setting an alarm for 3 in the morning just to see Kentucky take it to the house. No colors run deeper than good ole' Kentucky blue.

ISAF hosted ANSF and govt officials at a formal dinner and celebration in honor of Nowruz, the Afghan New Year, at Bagram Airfield, March 18. Nowruz, a Persian word meaning “a new day,” is an ancient Persian tradition. It marks the first day of spring, and the beginning of the New Year on a solar calendar.

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – “The event was organized by Combined Joint TF– 82 to celebrate the Nowruz with our Afghan partners ,so they all can get together informally and celebrate,” said Roya Sharifsoltani, research mgr for the CJTF-82 Human Terrain Advisory Team.

“New Year's such an important celebration for the Afghans; we wanted to share it with them,” said Army Lt. Col. Karolyn Hooper, the dep. chief of staff for CJTF-82. “This gives us an opportunity to bring all of these people together as partners in fellowship.”

“We're all working very hard together. It's good to enjoy each other’s company. it's one of the things that solidifies our partnership,” said Army Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, cmdr of CJTF-82.

There are several reasons for celebrating Nowruz here on BAF, explains Dr. James Emery, a cultural anthropologist with the Human Terrain Team, and Afghan Night Live founder and dir. “This will make our troops more motivated, comfortable and confident in spending time with Afghans outside the wire,” said Emery. “This is crucial to the success of our mission, since everything good in Afghanistan happens through personal relationships.”

The celebration also exposes aspects of Afghan culture to those unfamiliar with it. Emery’s hope is to influence how our troops plan and execute missions by countering negative stereotypes.

Emery added that the celebration also improves relationships with the Afghans working on BAF. “A warm smile and pleasant greeting go a very long way with our Afghan employees. It can create a groundswell of goodwill that will carry outside the gate, and into the surrounding towns and villages,” said Emery.

“The dinner was followed by a national Afghan dance, which was very interesting with a lot of head and neck movement. For many people this was the first time they've seen the dance,” said Sharifsoltani. With the exception of Taliban rule, Nowruz has been celebrated and observed in Afghanistan since the adoption of the Persian calendar, in 1957.

“Nowruz was banned during Taliban rule, and as soon as they were gone the celebration started again,” said Roya Sharifsoltani. In the future it's hoped that Nowruz celebrations, like Afghan Night Live, will take place on other ISAF bases and FOBs.

My wish is to help others experience even a fraction of the kindness, generosity, humor and friendship that I've enjoyed over many years of interaction with Afghans, said Emery.

An Atan dancer entertains personnel. Nowruz is celebrated on the day of the vernal equinox, when the sun is observed to be directly over the equator, and sunlight is evenly divided between the north and south hemispheres. This day typically lands on March 21.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Nangarhar residents benefit from cash for work programs

(Photo by Army Spc. Albert Kelley)

Sgt. 1st Class Richard Goolie, plt sgt of the MP plt, HHC, 4th BSTB, TF Gryphon, handles administrative paperwork with the chief of police for the Chaparhar district, March 12. ISAF were there to view a retaining wall project that was in progress behind a local village. ISAF regularly patrol the district, ensuring security and timely implementation of community development projects.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE – Soldiers from TF Gryphon visited local villagers to provide short-term employment through cash for work projects, March 12. “A lot of Afghanistan is poor,” said Capt. Rais Sanchez, cmdr of HHC. “They're asking for employment. That's the purpose of the cash for work program.”

Typically the projects have a cap of $5,000, and although there's no mandated completion time, projects are often completed in less than 28 days. Projects currently underway include irrigation ditches, retaining walls, and school building repairs in districts such as Surhk-Rod, Beshood and Chaparhar.

A secondary benefit of the projects is increased security, according to 1st Lt. John Holland, a plt leader with HHC. “We implemented a security agreement,” Holland said. “If anything negative occurs in the village, then we temporarily stop the project. It's an incentive to police up their own area. It’s been very effective.”

As a female Soldier, Sanchez recognizes that she's able to speak with female villagers, where as male Soldiers can't, due to cultural sensitivities. Sanchez said that the female Soldiers try to make the female villagers feel at ease by asking them how their families are, and how school is going. That makes them come out of their shell.

“According to Afghan culture, the mothers are very influential,” Sanchez said. “If you can get the mother on your side, she can raise the child to be supportive of the coalition and the GoA.”

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Vermont Guard Soldiers jump right into their mission

(Photo by Army Sgt. Andrew Reagan)

Army Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Snipp, with the Vermont NG’s 172nd ID, 3rd Bn, Echo Co, Distribution Plt, from Morrisville, Vt., pulls security during a rest stop on a convoy, Mar. 17. The unit, along with the Georgia NG unit they're replacing, hauled construction supplies from FOB Lightning, to COP Herrera, in order to give the Vermont unit situational awareness of their area of op.

PAKTYA PROVINCE – Hitting the ground running, the Distribution Plt was out on the road the day after arriving. Accompanying them were the ANA Soldiers the unit will partner with, and the unit they are replacing, the Georgia NG’s 48th Bde, 121st Light Inf Regt, 1st Bn, Echo Co, Distribution Plt from Winder, Ga.

Despite the quick turnaround, the Distribution Plt’s Soldiers have received high praise from their predecessors, and are eager to get rolling on their mission.“The mission today is exactly what we trained on. It feels good to be here, out on a mission. It’s better than sitting around. I like it when we’re moving; it makes the time fly by,” said Pfc. Scott Giguere, a vehicle operator.

The Soldiers in the Distribution Plt started their training with the idea their mission would be dedicated strictly to training their ANA counterparts. However, they received word during training that their mission changed. They would be going out on convoys alongside the ANA Soldiers, in addition to training them. The unit took the news in stride and is prepared to work with the ANA.

“We’ll train the ANA, conduct mentoring classes with them, get them more involved and then do a hand-off to them. We’re jumping right in when the Georgia Guard leaves,” said Sgt.1st Class Thomas Snipp, the distribution plt sgt.

The incoming Soldiers’ preparation and enthusiasm is not lost on those they're replacing. “My impressions of the Vermont Guard unit are that they’re definitely ready to go. They came in yesterday and we took them out on a long mission today. They did great,” said 1st Lt. Jerry Garner, the platoon leader for the Georgia Guard Distribution Plt.

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DVIDS

Marines, Afghan Soldiers Patrol Sistani

(Photos by Lance Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde)

SISTANI - Marines from 1st Plt, India Co, 3rd Bn, 6th Marine Regt, pet a lamb during a patrol in Sistani, Helmand prov., March 4, 2010. The India Marines and soldiers from the ANA are in Sistani to support Op Moshtarak, a push to rid the area of Taliban presence and intimidation.

Lance Cpl. Bryan Panko, a rifleman, shakes hands with an Afghan youth during a patrol.

A Pashto linguist with 1st plt, gives Afghan children cookies.

Lance Cpl. Matthew Mixon, a rifleman, assesses his surroundings.

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Iraqi Stories:

United States Forces - Iraq PAO

March 25, 2010

ISOF Graduates newest combat photographers

BAGHDAD - As Iraqis are taking more and more of their security into their own hands, a certain crucial responsibility is also changing hands: the telling of the Iraqi Soldier's story. Whether by photography or videography, the documentation of ops, and training by combat photographers is a vital part of telling that story, as well as a valuable info asset to ISF, as they progress in their training.

During the 14-day course, 12 Iraqi students studied digital camera and video recording techniques in a hands-on, intimate learning environment. With everything from the basic operation of the equipment, to advanced composition techniques, the course demanded a complex combination of tactical, technical and creative thinking from its students.

The primary instructor and senior-enlisted Iraqi combat photographer said that his students' enthusiasm made the difference in their performance. Neither he nor his students can be named due to security reasons. "They're so willing to learn that it's easy for them," the instructor said. "You could tell early on they were proud to be photographers, and that's where it starts."

The students' enthusiasm and passion met its first challenge on the very first day of class. Some had no familiarity with technologies many of their U.S. counterparts' take for granted, like laptop computers and portable storage devices. Some students had gone their whole lives without ever touching a computer mouse or typing on a keyboard. With the same patience and passion that marks all natural teachers, their instructor found himself giving a basic computer class.

"If they don't know something, I don't judge them; I teach them," he said. "I taught some to start from the very basics. For some, that meant turning on a computer and using Windows." With that obstacle hurdled, the class rolled on with fevered momentum, as its students took in their lessons with a hunger. "It's a very good class. Our instructor is serious about the work, and I'm proud to be learning it," a student said. "We all want to know more."

The instructor, a combat photographer of 6 years, also taught beyond the components, techniques and theories. As the first week wound down, he made a special point to emphasize the 'why' of COMCAM.

"As evidence, documentation protects our Soldiers. If someone makes a claim against us, saying that our Soldiers behaved poorly or hurt someone on an op, we can show the video and have proof to protect us from this false info," he explained. "One day, when the next generation is ready to take our place, they'll know all that we did for them."

The first week established a comfort zone of predictable action and controllable subjects, while the students got a handle on the basics. It was a comfort zone their instructor was glad to shatter in the next week of training. Soon, they were documenting live-fire ranges and stacking up behind ISOF's elite 1st Bn Commandos, during close-quarter combat training at Baghdad's Iraqi Special Warfare Center and School. They no longer had the comfort of carefully selecting their shots or asking their subject to turn to "adjust for the picture." Their instructor pushed for the combination of technical and tactical thinking, especially while performing ops where their subjects are amped up on both adrenaline and the urgency demanded by life-or-death close-quarters combat.

A U.S. SF Medical and Communications Sgt training prospective Commandos, allowed the class to document a rifle range during the course's second week, and noticed their primary instructor was an Iraqi. He likened the class' instructor to his own hand-selected cadre of Iraqi Soldiers, using a popular Army phrase, "training the trainer."

"The cadre and staff can then train other Iraqi Soldiers in their native language, speeding up training time and ensuring the Iraqi military is becoming more involved in training its own Soldiers." With the graduation of ISOF's newest COMCAM Soldiers, their instructor is confident that the story of Iraq and her Soldiers is in capable hands.

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American Forces Press Service

Iraqi Forces Arrest 5 Suspected Terrorists

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested a suspected AQI attack-cell member March 24 in Taji, about 15 miles north of Baghdad. Iraqi forces and U.S. advisors searched a building for a suspect believed to have provided safe haven for other terrorists, and to have planned bomb attacks against SECFOR. After a preliminary investigation, Iraqi forces identified and arrested the wanted man and 2 suspected criminal assocs.

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USF-I

ISF pursue northern-Iraq AQI network

BAGHDAD - In a rural area located approx 106 km NE of Baghdad March 24, the 3rd ERU and U.S. advisors searched several residential buildings for a suspected AQI member believed to work closely with Diyala-Prov. AQI leadership, to supply weapons and explosives to fellow terrorist-group members. After conducting preliminary questioning and examining the evidence collected during the op, IP arrested a suspected criminal assoc. of the warranted individual.

During a separate security op carried out March 25 in a rural area located approx. 79 km SW of Kirkuk, IP and U.S. advisors searched 2 residential buildings for a suspected AQI leader, who is believed to be involved with coordinating assassinations and VBIED attacks. Evidence and info discovered at the scene, prompted IP to arrest the warranted individual.

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USF-I

March 25, 2010

AQI member killed in joint security operation in Mosul

BAGHDAD - A suspected AQI member was killed and another arrested March 24, during a joint security op conducted in NE Mosul, to capture members of the AQI terrorist network. Acting upon a warrant issued by an Iraqi judge, the IA and U.S. advisors searched 2 residential buildings for a suspected AQI member believed to be involved in managing financial affairs for the terrorist org.

While securing the building to be searched, the security team was fired upon by an individual with a handgun. In response to the threat, the security team fired back at the gunman, killing him at the scene. The gunman was later identified as the warranted individual. Following preliminary questioning and an initial examination of evidence during the op, IA soldiers also arrested a suspected criminal assoc of the warranted individual.

GHAZNI PROVINCE – Army Maj. Jonathan Price, civil affairs officer, shakes hands with a local ANP officer after a mission, March 17. The CA team met with Afghans to help with needed supplies. ANP and SECFOR members from Ghazni PRT provided security.

Dr. Habib, an Afghan doctor from Andar district in Ghazni prov., speaks with Army Maj. Jonathan Price, and Sgt 1st Class Timothy Turner, medical NCO-in- charge, during a meeting.

Army Sgt Danielle Pellechio poses with local Afghan kids after a visit to a hospital in Andar district.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Georgia NG’s long road home nearly complete

By Army Sgt. Andrew Reagan

Army 1st Lt. Jerry Garner, plt leader for the Georgia NGard’s 48th Bde, 121st Light Inf Regt, 1st Bn, Echo Co, Distribution Plt, addresses members of his plt, as well as members of the Vermont NG who are replacing his unit, prior to a logistics convoy from FOB Lightning, Paktya prov., to COP Herrera, March 17.

PAKTYA PROVINCE - What made this mission special was that the plt also conducted it with their replacements, the Vermont NG’s 172nd ID, 3rd Bn, Echo Co, Distribution Plt. This hallmarked the near completion of the unit’s tour in Afghanistan. The Georgia Guard Soldiers will leave FOB Lightning in the next few days and begin their journey home.

The Soldiers in the unit say that the most important things they will take with them from their time in Afghanistan, are the strong bonds they formed with their ANA counterparts, and each other. “It will be sad to see everyone go their separate ways, but at the same time we know we can always rely on each other. We can call each other in the middle of the night if we ever need help. We’re battle buddies for life,” said the distribution plt sgt, Army Sgt. 1st Class Brian Mauro. Mauro added that the plt is so close-knit, because of what they accomplished and went through together.

Echo Co. drove more miles than any other co. in the 48th Bde. They delivered construction supplies, food and anything else that the units they supported needed. They drove through all 7 provs in the 48th’s area of op, and through every type of terrain imaginable, Mauro said.

There is one specific mission that the members of the plt point to as an event that changed the direction of their deployment. The unit embarked on a mission to deliver supplies to several nearby FOBs in early Nov. However, not only did the scheduled week-long op turn into a mettle testing 24-day ordeal, due to poor weather and other factors, but the unit also encountered a complex ambush on the 2nd day of the mission.

“The first time we got hit was a turning point. We became more serious about our mission, and it brought us closer together. It turned us into one cohesive team. You couldn’t separate us after that. We had to count on each other for everything. That bond will never go away. We went through this together and we came out of it together,” said Army Sgt. Greg Wallace, a medic with the plt.

Another positive during the 24-day mission was the strengthening of the relationship between the Soldiers in the Distribution Plt and their ANA counterparts. “During those 24 days, we had some down time waiting to go from place to place, and it made us really work with the ANA a lot. We spent a lot of time planning things with their staff, and we built some good personal relationships with them,” said the unit plt leader, Army 1st Lt. Jerry Garner. “Those 24 days really solidified our relationship with the ANA.”

Garner also discussed the development of the partnership between his unit and the ANA, as well as the important role the ANA played in his unit’s mission. “We started working with them back in Oct., especially with their NCOs. We made it a point to pair our NCOs with theirs. The trust factor has gone way up between our unit and theirs.

“Whenever we roll out we do our best to take them with us, and when they roll out they do the same for us. We use them on the cultural side of things, assisting with the population. We’re assisting their army and defending their country from people who want to do them harm. The ANA helps to get the message across,” Garner said.

After travelling across thousands of miles of eastern Afghanistan and surviving enemy attacks, the Soldiers of the Distribution Plt can’t wait to get home. They are rightfully proud of all they've accomplished in the last year, but are proudest of one single accomplishment. “We took 31 guys over here, and 31 are going back,” Mauro said.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Afghan youth push forward, defy insurgents

KUNAR PROVINCE – An Afghan youth brings his livestock to the veterinary treatment outreach event at Khas Khonar District Center, conducted by Coalition and Afghan govt officials, March 13. Local villagers, including Afghan youth ignored insurgent intimidation, and travelled as far as 10 kms to take advantage of the free animal care. The veterinary team was comprised of Afghan animal doctors. Many varieties of animals were treated to include goats, cows and water buffalo. More than 2,900 animals were treated.

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Joint Combat Camera Afghanistan

Commander's Cup

(Photos by Sgt. Russell Gilchrest)

CAMP DARULAMAN - Army Soldiers from BSB Bn, 173rd Abn BCT help each other get up a hill as fast as possible, during the Cmdr's Cup competition, March 10. The Cmdr's Cup Competition consists of 4 teams, each team consisting of 3 U.S. Army Soldiers and 1 ANA soldier, and requires the teams to compete against each other in events such as ruck marching, weapons assembly, land navigation, treating a casualty, aid, litter carries and preparing a military vehicle for a mission.

ANA soldiers and U.S. Army Soldiers who have been appointed to compete in the Cmdr's Cup competition, wait diligently for the event to begin.

U.S. Army soldiers, along with ANA soldiers conduct a tie-breaker event.

A U.S. Army soldier helps an ANA soldier make it to a finish line at a quick pace.

Army soldiers assemble various military weapons as fast as they can.

A U.S. Army soldier runs down a hill.

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Iraqi Stories:

United States Forces - Iraq PAO

IqAF conduct joint air assault with U.S. Air Cav

CAMP TAJI - The IqAF conducted a joint air assault mission with the 1st Air Cav Bde, to find and destroy weapons caches, March 14. During this joint air assault op, the combined forces provided aerial support to Soldiers from Co A, 2nd Sqdrn, 1st Cav Regt, 4th Stryker BCT, 2nd ID, and the IA, to perform a weapons cache-clearing mission.

The Iraqi aviators supported the IA Soldiers, and the gained trust between the ground and aviation assets is what the 1st ACB has worked toward since arriving in theater.

As the 1st ACB is about to depart, the relationship between the IqAF and their ground brethren is a sure sign that the mission was successful, said Capt. Jimmy Dailey, a Black Hawk helicopter pilot and cmdr of Co B, 3rd Bn, 227th Aviation Regt, 1st ACB.

"It's good to see the IqAF taking the steps to conduct missions on their own. The next step after this will be for them to lead an air assault, planning it and briefing it as well," said Dailey. The mission was his 5th joint air assault op that he has taken part in during his deployment.

JOINT BASE BALAD - Superjet Travel Agency is designed to lessen delays for third-country nationals (TCNs) traveling for recreational and emergency leave, said Swaraj Bhowal, the MGT mgr in Iraq.

There are more than 5,000 TCNs located on JBB, said Bhowal. Currently, it takes 3 to 5 days for TCNs to travel from JBB to Victory Base Complex, Iraq, where they leave Iraq through Baghdad Int'l Airport to go to Dubai, he said. From Dubai, they will catch a connecting flight to their final destination.

Bhowal said MGT approached the Iraqi Based Industrial Zone with the idea of partnering with Superjet Travels, to bring direct flights between JBB and Dubai.Commercial chartered aircrafts will utilize the flight lines at JBB to travel between the 2 countries, said Bhowal. Flights to Dubai are scheduled for once a week with the hopes of expanding in the future, he said.

The MGT Superjet Travel Agency is a joint venture for the IBIZ initiative, that will provide travel services for U.S. forces, contractors, TCN's and Iraqi entrepreneurs on JBB, said Sgt. Maj. Charles Scriven, the senior enlisted adviser for IBIZ with the 13th ESC. "The employment of Iraqis and the long-term goal of establishing a travel agency service outside of JBB ... will promote tourism in Iraq," said Scriven.

IBIZ assists the development of ideas to aid Iraqi infrastructure on JBB. Together with the AF, IBIZ helps start businesses that aid local nationals in the cities close to JBB, said Scriven.

The 13th ESC continues to set conditions for the growth and success of Iraq after U.S. forces withdraw from the country, said Col. Knowles Atchison, the dep. comm. officer of the 13th ESC. "This is a business opportunity not only for the local Iraqis here, but for all the foreign nationals that happen to be guests in their country," he said.

The opening of a travel agency on JBB offers opportunity for further development in the area, said Shoukte Ahmed, mayor of Yethrib. "In the future, we hope for the travel agency to be outside the fence, and in our city in order to develop our economy and bring more people into our area," he said.

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USF-I

ISF target terrorist group, arrest two suspects

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SECFOR arrested 2 suspected Jaysh al-Mahdi members March 23, during a joint security op, conducted in SE Baghdad to prevent upcoming attacks against SECFOR in the region.

Pursuant to a warrant issued by an Iraqi judge, ISF and U.S. advisors searched a residential building for a suspected JAM cmdr, who is believed to be involved in ops including assassinations, kidnappings and explosive attacks that primarily target SECFOR.

Preliminary questioning results and an initial examination of evidence at the scene led ISF to arrest 2 suspected criminal assos of the warranted individual.

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USF-I

ISF capture suspected AQI attack-cell member

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested a suspected AQI attack-cell member during a joint security op conducted March 23 in Al Taji, located approx 24 km north of Baghdad.

ISF and U.S. advisors searched a residential building for the suspected AQI attack-cell member, who is believed to have provided safe haven for other terrorist-group members, and planned IED attacks against SECFOR.

After conducting preliminary questioning and examining the evidence collected during the operation, ISF identified and arrested the wanted individual and 2 suspected criminal assocs.

Army Soldiers from Alpha Troop, and ANA soldiers patrol through the Spera Sub-District, March 11.

Army Soldiers conduct a dismounted patrol through the Spera District.

Staff Sgt. Brian Schiesser patrols throught the Spera Sub-District.

Pfc. Ryan Whalen and Pfc. Alexander Roper watch a movie at COP Spera.

Army Soldiers leave COP Spera to go on patrol in Khowst prov.

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Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO

Synapse Op: A New COP in Tagab Valley

(Photo by Petremand Sylvain)

KAPISA PROVINCE - TF Altor cmdr, Col. Eric Bellot des minieres, the 201st ANAcorps; the Kapisa prov. gov.; the district mullah and elders meet for a shura to mark the completion of the new COP in the Tagab valley, March 7. The objective of the new COP is so the ANSF will have a solid operational base to help them better secure the Bedraou district.

French army TF La Fayette armoured vehicles arrive at the site.

French TF La Fayette soldiers help build the new COP

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Cultural shura sheds light on Afghan perspective

By Army Staff Sgt. Bruce Cobbeldick

Logar chief general crimes prosecutor Abdul Noorzai addresses attendees of the cultural shura held at FOB Shank, March 7. Key leaders from TF Bayonet and Afghan leaders attended the event.

LOGAR PROVINCE – With Army Maj. Jay Baker, TF Bayonet governance chief, serving as facilitator for the culture shura, the speakers kicked off discussions by sharing concepts about what it means to be Muslim, and touched on the importance of the people of Afghanistan.

Some of the concerns that surfaced during the shura were the high illiteracy rate in Afghanistan, limited access to factual info, and communication challenges. Most Afghans receive their info and news from radio and sometimes television. Access to both mediums were dictated by their proximity to a district or provincial center, said Rahim Shirinzoy, an Afghan media expert, and a guest speaker at the cultural shura.

Mullah Rahman Sadique, a religious leader of the Logar and Wardak provs, also said that without accurate info in their books, it's challenging to socialize and learn about the culture, when the audience is largely illiterate. With communication as a social and cultural barrier, those who cannot read are faced with an even greater challenge, with trying to learn their culture and establish an identity that is true to their Afghan heritage, said Saidique.

“Our religion bars students of the Muslim religion from harming others. Nonetheless, enemies of Afghanistan come into a village and tell villagers, by word of mouth, to take actions that defy Muslim principles. Due to so many being uneducated, these disadvantaged citizens may be confused and follow the wrong path, and worse yet, be led astray by enemies of Afghanistan, who have agendas,” Sadique said.

With more Afghan citizens, both male and female, volunteering to fight for increased security in this region, people will come together to determine what is best. With the help of CF and improved security, Afghans are encouraged and hopeful for the future, Sadique said.

In addition to social and communication challenges, the political and civil unrest for the past 30 years coupled with theft crimes, offers another set of obstacles for the area. “We need to understand what happened, and look to the anti-Afghan forces for causing this unrest. We should find out why our hardest problem now is that area,” said Abdul Noorzai, the Logar chief general crimes prosecutor.

The partnership and support by the CF was appreciated by all attendees of the shura, especially in helping with security. “For sure, he (Gen. Stanley McChrystal) has a good policy for promoting security here,” said Noorzai before the event was concluded.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Task Force Falcon begins flight medic academy

By Army Spc. Monica Smith

Army Sgt. Kieth Rudd, flight medic for Co C, MEDEVAC, TF Knighthawk, 3rd CAB, TF Falcon, explains the history of military medevac to his 2 students, during the first class of the ANA Air Corps Flight Medic Academy, March 15 at Bagram Airfield. At the completion of the course, the ANA medics will then be qualified flight medics.

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – “You're the difference between life and death for those Soldiers on the ground,” said Army Sgt. Kieth Rudd, flight medic for Co C, MEDEVAC, during the first portion of the class. “Not just for Soldiers, but also for the local population. We're here to help get them to medical facilities so they can receive the best medical care available.”

The first class of 2 ANA medics and 1 interpreter, will study the history of medevac, loading and unloading patients, and in-flight care. Flight medics from TF Knighthawk, will instruct the class, which includes both in-class instruction and flying.

The flight medic academy is the 3rd academy hosted by TF Falcon; the other 2 being the ANSF Crew Chief Academy, and the ANSF Air Assault Academy. All three academies are designed to train and equip Afghan forces, with the end goal of turning over increasing responsibility to the Afghan forces.

“This academy gives us an opportunity to work combined actions, and to work skill sets between our flight medics and their flight medics,” said Army Staff Sgt. Joseph McCormick, plt sgt in C Co. “The ability to increase our capabilities to treat all Soldiers on the battlefield both coalition and Afghan Soldiers, plays a huge role in our overall success. This is the crawl phase; soon we'll be walking side-by-side.”

The academy comes a week before the ANA officially announces a flight medic position. Prior to the announcement, medics served in an unofficial position without in-depth training. At the completion of the course, the medics will then be qualified flight medics. ANA Master Sgt Rahim, an ANAAC medic participating in the course, said he's honored to be one of the first medics to participate in the class.

“I feel happy because now we can help our people,” said Rahim. “When we were in our own facility, we didn’t have the equipment we needed, but we are getting it. We need to learn and train on how to use the equipment we'll be receiving, and also learn more info about medevac.”

As Rudd explained the history of military medevac to the ANA medics, he shared stories of medevac units flying into landing zones under enemy fire and staying until they received their patients. “I don’t tell you these stories to scare you, but to show you the amount of integrity, and the amount of honor it takes to get the patient out of harm’s way,” said Rudd. “These are our stories, and now you have the opportunity to write your story. We're humbled and thankful to have you here, to teach you these skills, and to help you write your story.”

Sgt. Chris Rigby, flight medic for Co C, demonstrates how to check an airway of a patient, to his 2 students. At the completion of the course, the medics will then be qualified flight medics.

Sgt. Chris Rigby shows 2 of his students and an interpreter how to use a bag valve mask to assist a patient in breathing.

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American Forces Press Service

Combined Forces Kill, Detain Militants

KABUL, March 18, 2010 - Afghan and ISAF killed several militants and detained numerous suspects in ops March 17, military officials reported.

In Kunar prov., a combined Afghan-int'l force went to a compound in the Chapa Dara district, after residents asked for help in removing the local Taliban threat.

Intel info confirmed militant activity, and the location of a Taliban cmdr believed to be responsible for planning attacks against Afghan and coalition troops. Several armed militants threatened the combined element as it surrounded the compound, forcing them to engage the insurgents. These armed militants, including the targeted Taliban cmdr, were killed.

In the Zharay district of Kandahar prov., a combined force detained several suspected insurgents for further questioning, and another combined force detained 2 suspected insurgents in Helmand prov's Nad-e Ali district.

CAMP VICTORY – A transfer of authority ceremony in the rotunda of Al Faw Palace saw the blue and white colors of the Army’s Third Corps unfurled, as the storied Phantom Corps took its place as a member of the newly-formed U.S. Forces – Iraq.

Third Corps, based at Fort Hood, Texas, is the first corps-level unit to begin its tour as a component of USF-I. First Corps, based at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., merged MNC – Iraq into the new USF-I org. in January.

During the ceremony, Lt. Gen. Robert Cone, USF-I dep. comm. gen. for ops and III Corps CG, told his Soldiers they're now part of USF-I, and will be part of a historic moment in both U.S. military history, and in the history of Iraq.

"To the Soldiers of the Third Corps, you're now part of a bigger team. Supporting the mission of USF-I is no small task," he said. "As I have stated at Fort Hood, we're a team of teams, and that's no different here. To all of the service members serving in USF-I, you're at the cusp of a historic period. Before us is the opportunity to make a mark in history."

During the ceremony, Gen. Ray Odierno, USF-I comm. gen., said that Cone, Command Sgt. Maj. Arthur Coleman Jr., and the Phantom Corps Soldiers return to Iraq at a time of transition, and will have a lot of work ahead of them.

"Following the recently-completed elections, we're now entering a new phase of the U.S./ GoI relationship, and with that, we bring in the Third U.S. Corps led by Lt. Gen. Bob Cone," Odierno said. "Third Corps is no stranger to the Iraqi theater of ops, as it makes its third deployment as the operational HQ here in Iraq. We all know there is much work to be done for you and our increasingly capable Iraqi partners."

As the III Corps Soldiers begin this deployment, Cone said they're ready to join the USF-I team and accomplish the mission before them. "The Third Corps team stands ready," he said. "We're fully integrated into the USF-I staff, and prepared for the challenges ahead."

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DVIDS

Restoring Iraq's past should brighten future

By Spc. Brian Johnson

Providing security, a member of the Army’s 4th Stryker BCT, 2nd ID, looks down from the steps of the 3,500-year-old ziggurat at Aqar Quf, near Baghdad, March 11, 2010.

(Army photo by Spc. David Robbins)

BAGHDAD – The Iraqi Ministry of Antiquities recently approached the 4th Stryker BCT, 2nd ID for help in restoring some modern structures at the base of the 3,500-year-old ziggurat in Aqar Quf, 20 miles west of the Iraqi capital. In response, Soldiers from the 16th Engineer Brigade’s Survey and Design Team recently visited the site to assess the proposed renovation’s electrical requirements.

The ziggurat, a stepped, temple tower, is the Mesopotamian equivalent of the Egyptian pyramids. The MoA hopes a renovation will attract visitors and revitalize the economy, while preserving the temple. The structures, built in the 1960s, functioned as a museum and administrative building throughout the second half of the 20th century. However, after years of war, the site is not what it once was.

"The administrative buildings have been degraded and looted," said Sgt. 1st Class Kyle Markel, a member of the S&D Team. According to Markel, the ziggurat and temple areas have suffered no damage, but the modern buildings are in need of restoration work. The restoration, still in the planning stages, will eventually be completed by local Iraqi contractors.

"We came to the site to look at the electrical installation, and to validate the existing scope of work for the electrical project," said Markel. "The museum had nothing electrical left in it; no lights, no switches, and wires have been literally pulled out of the walls," said Spc. David Robbins, a member of the team, also sent to assess the site.

According to Robbins, even the electrical panels were removed from the museum and administrative buildings at some point, leaving holes in the walls.During their visit to Aqar Quf, Robbins and Markel had the opportunity to explore the ruins. They said the experience deepened their understanding of the significance of the museum and administrative buildings.

They were awe struck after exploring the ancient ruins. "When I climbed the steps and was able to see the monument up close, and the fine details about how it was constructed; it's impressive to think that 3,500 years ago someone had constructed this," said Markel. "It's an engineering feat because it's still standing after all these years."

Both Robbins and Markel said they hope their work will help reopen this historical site someday, and bring tourists back to the area, including them.

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United States Forces - Iraq PAO

Iraqi Special Operations Forces arrest suspected terrorists

BAGHDAD - An element of the ISOF, along with U.S. Forces Advisors, arrested 2 suspected AQI terrorists in the Al Furat area of Baghdad, March 17.

The arrested individuals are allegedly affiliated with an Al Qaeda cell responsible for sectarian killings of Iraqi citizens, and IED attacks against Iraqi and U.S. SECFOR in Baghdad.

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USF-I

Power Position

(Army photo by Spc. Venessa Hernandez)

Soldiers from “Crazyhorse” Company, 2nd ID, from Fort Lewis, Wash., maneuver to a location near Taji, March 6, 2010.

Children in a town near Taji, show off their donkey, March 8, 2010. Many Iraqi children saw their working-animals born and love them like pets.

Iraq: Sgt Chris Blanks leads on/off the court. AQI linked to explosives cell, captured/ killed in a series of ops. U.S. Soldiers and Iraqi correction officers train together at Camp Cropper.

Joanna

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Afghanistan Stories:

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Forces defend village from insurgent attack during joint patrol

By Army Staff Sgt. Gary Witte

KUNAR PROVINCE – U.S. Army Soldiers with 2nd Plt, Co D, 2nd Bn, 12th Inf Regt, TF Lethal, prepare to move from cover, during an attack by insurgent forces in Tantil village, March 13. ANF and ISAF visited the community and its elders, because of a high number of recent militant attacks in the area. There were no injuries during the small arms attack.

Pfc. Robert Goggins, a gunner, shoots back after his patrol is attacked by insurgent forces.

2nd Lt. Robert De Young, the incoming plt leader of 2nd Plt, reloads during an attack.

Soldiers return fire.

Sgt. Richard Williams, a squad leader with 2nd Plt, moves from cover with ANA troops during an attack.

Sgt. James Honeycutt, a K-9 handler with the 415th MP Det, and his partner Tom, search outside a home in the Tantil village. The 2 searched for hidden explosives.

Soldiers with 2nd PlT move to the Tantil village.

Soldiers with Co D talk to the elders.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Course trains ANA soldiers, develops leaders

By Army Pfc. Michael Sword

Army Sgt. 1st Class Paul Makwakwa, 1st Bn, 503rd Inf Regt, moves with a squad of ANA soldiers, as part of the squad movement training class of their first senior leader’s course at FOB Abn, Feb. 28- March 4.

LOGAR PROVINCE – After 4 days of classes, discussions and training, ANA troops graduated from the senior leaders course that was conducted by 1st Bn, 503rd Inf Regt, 173rd Abn BCT, March 4.

The course was a joint-effort between Marines eMiTTs for both 2nd and 6th Kandak, their sgts maj, and Soldiers of 1st Bn., 503rd Inf. Regt. “We based it off of the concept for our bn’s team leader course,” said Army Command Sgt. Maj. John Bagby, command sgt maj of 1st Bn., 503rd Inf. Regt., of Tuscaloosa, Ala.

After months of joint-planning, the course was ready. “They were very excited about it,” said Bagby. “They’ve been motivated about it from the onset.” Over the 4 days, the training focused on a variety of subjects, including staff functions, physical training, maintenance and squad movement techniques. The intent was to make the classes discussion-based and let the ANA soldiers share their experiences.

Army Sgt. 1st Class, Paul Makwakwa, a former Army Ranger instructor, was in charge of teaching the squad movement, and hand and arm signals classes. During the class, Makwakwa also taught the importance of pre-combat checks and inspections.

Overall, the class was well received by the ANA. “I think it went well, and I enjoyed working with these guys,” said Makwakwa. “We need to do more of this, so they can be more confident and take over their own battle space.”

Bagby also plans to eventually turn the courses over to be taught by the ANA.“My goal is to turn it over to them, then we’ll just oversee it and not do anything except assist them,” he said. “That will be a win, having them educating their own troops.”

With the first course over and planning already getting started for the next, Bagby and Makwakwa see progress being made, and potential to develop the current and future leaders of the ANA. “They’re enthusiastic about learning new ideas and new tech, and they’re highly motivated,” said Makwakwa. “This is my 4th tour in Afghanistan and there're definitely significant changes in the ANA.”

LOGAR PROVINCE – Army Gen. Stanley McChrystal, cmdr of ISAF, with Army Maj. Gen. Michael Flynn, chief of intel for ISAF, listen to a briefing by 173rd Abn BCT cmdr, Army Col. James Johnson, during a visit to FOB Shank, March 10. McChrystal also spoke during the meeting, discussing current ops, and the future of the counter-insurgency fight in Afghanistan. “We’re here not to fight the war, but we’re here to win,” said McChrystal. “And we win through the people.”

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DVIDS

NYC Cmdrs Celebrate completion of Farah PRT project

(Photos by Master Sgt. Tracy DeMarco)

FARAH PROVINCE - Navy Cmdr Lawrence Vasquez, cmdr of the Farah PRT and a Naval aviator, speaks with Farah prov. Gov. Amin, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the Farah PRT sponsored Kadanak Village electrification project, Feb. 14. Vasquez is one of 3 PRT cmdrs who grew up in N.Y.C., and served simultaneous tours as PRT cmdrs across Afghanistan. "It's pretty remarkable," said Cmdr. Vasquez, "to have 3 guys who all grew up in the boroughs, serving thousands of miles away together in the same position, at the same time, and with all the same goals. It just doesn't happen very often."

AF Lt. Cols. Eric Hommel and Andy Veres, and Navy Cmdr. Lawrence Vasquez, each one a New Yorker. All 3 of these officers from "the old neighborhood" are making great sacrifices for the people of Afghanistan. Furthermore, all 3 attribute their tenacity and their willingness to serve, to their New York upbringing.

AF Lt. Col. Andy Veres, the Zabul PRT cmdr, addresses the crowd in attendance for a Girl's School ground-breaking ceremony, in a city where there has been no formal female education in over a decade. "It's really easy for me to answer when people ask why I'm in Afghanistan," Veres said in an interview in December. "When I look into the eyes of the children of Afghanistan, I can't bring myself to turn my back on the absolutely crippling needs of this society. More importantly, the ideology that is capable of throwing acid on a young girl's face, simply because she's going to school, is part of the same mindset that carried out the attacks of Sept. 11th on the U.S."

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Iraqi Stories:

Blackanthem Military News

701st Soldier leads on, off the court

By Spc. Shantelle Campbell

Sgt. Chris Blanks, a supply NCO with 701st BSB, 4th IBCT, 1st ID out of Fort Riley, Kan., shoots a free throw at the All Star Basketball game, March 13 at the Main Gym on COB Speicher.

TIKRIT - Top basketball talent throughout COB Speicher played in the All Star Basketball game. For someone who said that he lost some of his love for the game during his last deployment, Blanks dominated on the court, scoring 15 points of the West's 73 to 55 win over the East.

Even though he's played basketball most of his life, Blanks said his biggest accomplishment is being eligible for staff sgt with only 4 years in the military."I did what I had to do to show my leaders that I was good at what I was doing," he said. "When I'm on the basketball court, I can adjust to any team I play on, and I can play any position. Anytime they need me to do something at work, I'm ready to go. If I have to go on missions, or if I have to do something to help the Soldiers out, or just do my regular military occupational specialty, I'm ready. I can do it all."

Sgt. Chris Blanks (center) stands with his teammates.

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USF-I

ISF capture six AQI members linked to explosives cell

BAGHDAD - March 21, in a rural area located approx 31 km north of Baghdad, IA soldiers and U.S. advisors searched a residential building for a suspected AQI explosives-cell member, who is believed to make and distribute homemade explosives used in attacks by the terrorist group throughout Baghdad.

Info gathered within the building led the Iraqi-led security team to a weapons cache site nearby where several large artillery rounds were found. IA soldiers identified and arrested the warranted explosives maker and 2 suspected criminal accomplices.

During a 2nd security op carried out in a rural area located approx 19 km NW of Mosul, IA soldiers and U.S. advisors searched a residential building for a suspected AQI explosives-cell member who is believed to be behind several VBIED attacks in Mosul. IA soldiers identified and arrested the warranted attack-cell member and 2 suspected criminal accomplices.

BAGHDAD - March 21, IP and U.S. advisors searched a residential building in Yanijah Buyuk, located approx 69 km south of Kirkuk, for a suspected AQI explosives-cell member, who's believed to have been involved in multiple IED attacks in the Kirkuk area, including planning an upcoming VBIED attack in Kirkuk, March 22, on the Kurdish New Year. The suspected AQI explosives-cell leader is also allegedly connected to higher-level AQI leaders in the Tamim Prov.

As the security team approached the building, an individual was spotted inside through a window. The suspect refused to comply with the security team's directions to exit the building, and instead reached for an assault rifle nearby. Members of the security team shot and killed the gunman, who was later identified as the wanted individual.

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USF-I

March 22, 2010

U.S. Soldiers and Iraqi Correction Officers train together

By Spc. Candace Mundt

The Cropper theater internment facility immediate reaction force (IRF) team runs toward the modular detainee housing unit, as part of their man-down and hostage extraction training, March 19, 2010. The IRF team is made up of Soldiers from Co D, 1-141 Inf Bn and Iraqi Corrections Officers (ICO), who specialize in less-than-lethal force protection.

CAMP CROPPER - These procedures may be used when a U.S. service member, ICO or civilian is taken hostage, or a detainee is seriously injured inside one of the compounds. An incident of this sort requires a quick extraction, which is why the compounds call in the IRF Team.

"Every second is precious when you're conducting this drill," said Staff Sgt. Cristobal Trevino, IRF dayshift lead. "We have to go and get him out using the least amount of force necessary." The IRF team members are the leading experts on the TIF in less-than-lethal weapons and extraction techniques. They are constantly retraining to improve their tactics, and to ensure the safety of anyone on the TIF.

ICOs are very active members of the IRF team and work on the same level as the U.S. service members. This training exercise is just one of the many steps that will prepare the ICOs for when the Cropper TIF is turned over to the GoI, July 15.

"We're using them in our snatch-and-grab team, and also in our over watch security," Trevino said about the ICOs that'll take part in this training mission. "We train these guys on a daily basis. We're learning the same sheet of music."

"The group that I have right now performs very well," Trevino said. "Every time we do a drill...they're always with us. For the ICO IRF team, I definitely feel comfortable with their tactical and technical knowledge."

Soldiers have found the ICOs to be a valuable asset to their team as they learn more about their mission and about each other's cultures. "They're very friendly and they're hard workers," said Spc. Brandon Richardson, another IRF team member. "I didn't know what to expect when I was told that I was going to work with them, and now I see they're just like us, just a different culture."

"I'd say they work above par," said Pfc. Russell Henderson. "They know that they're going to be in charge once our mission is complete, so they have a higher standard expected of them."

Two IRF team members, Pfc. Jeromy Tattrie, (right), and an ICO called Fernando (left), pound fists after a very successful training drill on personnel extractions. The team took only 5 minutes and 11 seconds to don their gear, run to the site and complete the mission.

PAKTIA PROVINCE - Army Staff Sgt. Stephen Thacker, a Paktika PRT member, shakes hands with local children while on patrol, March 15. Thacker is assigned to the 5th Bn, 3rd FA, Fort Lewis, Wash.

The ANA passes out school supplies to villagers during a combined action civil assistant mission. The ANA organized the mission, coordinated the movement of supplies and controlled the mission’s security element.

U.S. Soldiers hand out candy while on patrol.

Afghan children wait to receive school supplies.

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CJTF 82 Public Affairs, Bagram Media Center

Laghman PRT completes transfer of authority

By AF 2nd Lt. Rachel Davenport

AF Lt. Col. Christopher Possehl takes the guidon from Army Col. Randy George at the Laghman PRT transfer of authority ceremony, at FOB Mehtar Lam, March 13.

LAGHMAN PROVINCE — Throughout the ceremony, sincere words of appreciation, hope and encouragement were expressed by both cmdrs, as well as Col. Randy George, cmdr of TF Mtn Warrior, who presided over the ceremony.

The prov. has come a long way since arriving almost a year ago; however there is still much to be done, according to George. “Thank you for the hard and great work you've given, that has made such an amazing difference in this prov.,” said George.

“Ten years from now you'll not remember our names, but with God’s help you will remember the good things we accomplished together,” he said in Pashto, the predominant language of the area. “We still have a hard journey ahead,” said George to the incoming team, but “I'm completely confident that you'll build upon the past successes.”

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Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO

Kapisa Transfer of Authority Ceremony

(Photos by Staff Sgt. Donald Reeves)

KAPISA PROVINCE - TF Cyclone Cmdr, Army Brig. Gen. Lonnie Culver, presented a plaque to outgoing PRT cmdr, AF Lt. Col. Thomas Goulter, during the transfer of authority ceremony at FOB Morales-Frazier, March 8. In addition to presenting a plaque, Culver used the opportunity to highlight Women's Int'l Day, noting the work that the PRTs have done to help bring women's equality to the area. "Here in Afghanistan we have seen employment opportunities expand, and women such as Gov. Sarobi of Bamyan excel in the political arena. I commend you for your efforts to bring prosperity to Kapisa, but especially for the support to the women in your prov.," Goulter said.

French, Afghan and U.S. service members were on hand to observe the transfer of authority. All 3 nations work closely together to improve the quality of life for Afghans in the prov.

French army Brig. Gen. Marcel Druart, passes the guidon to incoming Kapisa PRT cmdr AF Lt. Col. Joseph Paguiligan. The PRTs are made up of military and civilian specialists whose mission is to improve security, extend authority of the Afghan central govt, and facilitate reconstruction.

French army Brig. Gen. Marcel Druart and U.S. Army TF Cyclone Cmdr Brig. Gen. Lonnie Culver, salute during a transfer of authority ceremony. The French army oversees the Kapisa area and works closely with the U.S. military and the Afghan govt, to provide security and improve the life of local Afghans. Culver said that the PRTs "have provided support to the French efforts in stability and reconstruction, and are making a difference."

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Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO

Communication – The key to success

By AF Senior Master Sgt. Jessica D’Aurizio

FOB THUNDER - A training seminar conducted by the Wise Corps, took place March 14 through 16. The training better equipped the attendees with skills to communicate with the public through the media. Attendees included spokespersons from the ANA, Border Patrol and Police, the National Directorate of Security, local Afghan media, and soldiers from the Religious Cultural Advisory office and ops office. Each participant received a certificate of completion presented by ANA Chief of Staff, Brig. Gen. Gul.

An ANP displays his certificate of completion.

A Wise Corp. instructor talks with an Afghan media rep, and ANA Public Affairs Sgt. Saamat following a training seminar.

A local Afghan media rep presents a business card to ANA Public Affairs Sgt. Saamat following a training seminar.

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Iraqi Stories:

DVIDS

Kirkuk Combined Security Force to Improve Quality of Life

Story by Pfc. Jessica Luhrs

TF Marne Soldiers with Alpha Co, 1st Bn, 30th Inf, 2nd BCT, 3rd ID out of Fort Stewart, Ga., and the Combined SECFOR patrol the village of Amal Shabi near Kirkuk, where a rapidly growing population has caused a problem for the village with sewage and trash.

KIRKUK -- In the village of Amal Shabi, the growing population has caused the schools to overflow; sewage in the village is now out of control, and the villagers need more water, according to the leadership and principals.

To begin making plans for improving the quality of life for the people, the Kirkuk Combined SECFOR (CSF), made up of TF Marne Soldiers, Pesh Murga, IA and IP, met with the leadership, March 18. During the meeting 1st Lt. Doug Wolfe, a plt leader with Alpha Co., and Lt. Hashem, a CSF plt leader, met with the leadership of the area to talk about their concerns.

The main issues that were addressed, were the conditions of the schools, lack of clean water and the overflow of sewage. One of the projects the CSF is lining up is the renovation of the schools in the area. "We want to help you provide a good quality education to the children, because they are the future," said Wolfe. The CSF and the leadership agreed the best way to do this is to combine the schools, then work to rebuild and expand them.

Another concern that has recently become an issue, because of the rapidly growing population of the area of over 1,000 families, is the water tower that is not big enough to support the village, according to the village Mukhtar.

The main concern voiced by the citizens was the overflow of sewage and trash in the area. "My children and I are sick all the time because of this problem, and I know we are not the only family like this," said one of the principals, who live right next to the overflowing sewage.

To help fix this issue the TF Marne Soldiers and CSF plan to first get the area cleaned, then assist the town in establishing a Dept of Public Works. These projects will help bridge the gap between what the village now has, and what they need to become safe and prosperous in the future, said to Wolfe.

TF Marne Soldiers with the Kirkuk CSF, meet with the leadership of Amal Shabi, to discuss the growing population and its effect on the schools, sewage and water.

An Iraqi girl watches from her gate, as TF Marne Soldiers, and the CSF patrol the village to look at the problems caused by a rapidly growing population.

Leadership of Amal Shabi stand along with Kirkuk CSF outside one of the area schools. This school is one of the many projects of the CSF.

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DVIDS

Checkpoints Hinder Insurgent Activities

Story by Pfc. Jessica Luhrs

A Kirkuk ESU soldier that is a searcher at a checkpoint outside of Kirkuk, searches a local national's car for any contraband, March 16. The checkpoint that opened in January played a key role in security for the city during the elections, and the soldiers have promised it will continue to.

KIRKUK -- Just south of FOB Warrior, is a joint checkpoint known to the TF Marne Soldiers and Kirkuk ESU soldiers that occupy it, simply as "the castle."Soldiers of Charlie Co, 1st Bn, 30th Inf, 2nd BCT, 3rd ID out of Fort Stewart, Ga., along with the ESU were the first to occupy this checkpoint, after it opened in Jan. 2010.

"We don't run into many problems at the castle with the citizens of Kirkuk," said Pvt. Casey Yates, a tanker with Charlie Co. "Most of the people that travel this road live in the area and understand that these checkpoints are for their safety."

However, all the Soldiers and ESU attribute the lack of issues in the area to fear. The insurgents know we'll catch them as soon as they try to get into the city, said one ESU soldier as he searched a car, so why even try to get past us.

"There's still a threat out there; if there wasn't, we wouldn't be here" said Olvera, plt leader, who tells his Soldiers this every day, to keep them focused.

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USF-I

Iraqi Police pursue AQI in Diyala Province, arrest two suspects

BAGHDAD - IP arrested 2 suspected terrorists March 20, during a joint security op conducted in northern Iraq to capture a suspected member of the AQI terrorist group operating in Diyala Prov.

Preliminary questioning results and evidence collected during the op led IP to arrest 2 suspected criminal assocs. of the warranted individual.

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DVIDS

Iraqi Intel Class

Story by Staff Sgt. Christina Turnipseed

Iraqi Lt. Col. Sefoog of the Iraqi Training and Advising Mission (ITAM) teaches students from different security groups an overview of the intel cycle.

One of the classes offered taught members of the IP, the National Infor and Investigation Agency, the Dir. Gen. of Intel and Security, and members from the Northern Oil Corp. Police how to navigate through the Iraqi Intel Network, which serves the same purpose as the DoD's Secret Internet Protocol Router Network, designed to keep sensitive info flow secure, according to Mr. Kristopher Berceli, a civilian Army DoD employee and NIIA advisor. "It's what you would call their classified and secure network," said Berceli.

"I think it opens their [Iraq security] eyes to a need for further understanding of the intel field," said Mr. Charles Meyer, civilian intel advisor who has worked with intel companies for 14 years. The ITAM MTT plans to travel to several locations teaching ISF the basics of the intel business. "This is the first of the MTT [Mobile Training Team]," said McGinnis. "We expect to go to every prov."

Iraq: 49th MP Bde participates in historic election. 2/32 FA respond to small arms fire. Maj. Anthony Rudd lectures at Basra University College of Med. St. Patrick's Day 5K Fun Run at Camp Prosperity.

Joanna

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Afghanistan Stories:

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Panjshir PRT Civil Engineers work to provide power

By Army Staff Sgt. Donald Reeves

Panjshir PRT members, AF Capt. Phillip Baker, Daniel Fredrickson, Scott Davis, construction rep USACE, and AF 2nd Lt. Jason Adams examine a leaking aqueduct in the village of Shotul, March 14. Davis said that they would help villagers construct a more permanent fix to the aqueduct. In addition to irrigation, the aqueduct supplies water to a micro-hydro plant that provides a limited amount of clean, renewable electricity to approx 70 homes in the village.

PANJSHIR PROVINCE – A team of engrs from the Panjshir PRT set out to perform site surveys of public works projects in remote villages. The first stop brought them to the district of Shotul. Here, like in many other places in Afghanistan, water flowing from springs and the melting mountain snow form creeks and waterways that are harnessed by locals to provide irrigation for primitive farming.

The next stop took them around narrow, winding hills that hug the sides of steep mountains to the village of Janan Joi. Here, villagers had requested help building one of the micro-hydro units to provide power that they could use at night for lighting and small appliances. Accompanied by a rep of the district gov., they hiked several hundred feet down a rough path into the valley to find the best site for the project.

Micro-hydro units are becoming increasingly popular. Since power distribution can be expensive and difficult over the mountainous country, the small units can provide electricity in remote places. In addition to being a clean source of power, PRT engr Daniel Fredrickson said, “this allows them to take advantage of their natural resources.” However, Fredrickson noted that micro-hydro units, which have a total cost of around $120,000, require a high level of quality in the construction, and periodic maintenance to stay functional for long-term usage.

Structural NCO, AF Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Louk is charged with quality assurance. Louk, who was decorated for his humanitarian efforts after hurricane Katrina, worked closely with contractors to make sure they maintain the degree of quality needed to make the endeavor last. “I look at the project from a craftsmanship point of view,” said Louk. “It’s very rewarding being able to help mentor local contractors, and move them forward in the construction practice.”

A discussion on the edge of a cliff overlooking the river valley ensued between the PRT, govt officials and village reps. All agreed that they were off to a good start.

Scott Davis takes down notes for an aqueduct repair project in the Shotul district.

Electrical engr Daniel Fredrickson, inspects a micro-hydro power station, while a young villager looks on, in the Shotul district.

Civil engrs of the Panjshir PRT met with govt officials and village leaders on the side of a cliff to discuss the potential site of a micro-hydro plant in the remote village of Janan Joi.

The Panjshir PRT engineers work with the Afghan govt on building projects to improve the lives of Afghans.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Parwan PRT assess water damage

By AF Master Sgt. Kelley Stewart

Army Staff Sgt. Lepaul Fletcher, Parwan PRT and asst convoy cmdr, briefs convoy members prior to their mission to Qal'ah-ye Khwajah village, March 13. The PRT's engineers went to the village to assess a situation where elevated ground water was damaging 500 to 600 homes. This is the first mission the PRT has run from start to finish, since its arrival in late February.

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – “Apparently what’s happened over the past 40 years, is that there used to be a canal built by the Chinese that went through the village,” said builder 1st Class Patricio Gonzalez, a Parwan PRT engr. “Through the years, the villagers have covered the canal, and built houses on it.” Now the water is seeping to the top and destroying their homes.

The Parwan team met with village leaders and 3 district ministers. Gonzales told the leader he was there to gauge the situation so “we can bring it back to the Afghan govt and inform them of the situation, so together we can work to fix their problem.” The Parwan PRT has been going out on missions with TF Galdius for the past 2 weeks, so team members could get familiar with the area and the villages, as well as get comfortable operating in this area.

“I don’t know if there's any specific criteria that determines when a team is ready to conduct its own missions,” said Army Cmdr 1st Sgt. James Herrington, Parwan PRT's 1st sgt. “It basically boils down to the leadership’s assessment of the way the missions will be run, and both sides having a comfortable feeling that it’s going to be done right.” This PRT’s leaders said the team is ready and fully mission capable.

1st Sgt. James Herrington briefs the route to be taken by team members to Qal’ah-ye Khwajah village.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Cyclone and Wolverine commanders visit Bamyan

By Army Spc. Charles Thompson

New Zealand Army Col. Martin Dransfield, New Zealand PRT cmdr, U.S. Army Gen. Joseph Culver, TF Cyclone cmdr, U.S. Army Col. William Roy, TF Wolverine cmdr, Gen. Qudsi, ANP deputy head of police in Bamyan, and other members of TF Cyclone and Wolverine take a photo after a meeting at police HQ, March 13.

BAMYAN PROVINCE – TF Cyclone cmdr and their Soldiers welcomed members of TF Wolverine, who will assume command and work with the New Zealand PRT, and the ANP in the Bamyan Area. “Gen. Culver, I would like to welcome you to Bamyan,” said Afghan Gen. Qudsi, ANP deputy head of police in Bamyan. “We have worked well with the NZ PRT and your team, and I hope we can continue to work with the new team on making Bamyan a model prov.” Qudsi also expressed the need for advanced training for the members of his police force.

“I'm very honored to be here and to help support your agency,” said Berry. “I'm bringing quite a bit of experience in law enforcement on the team, as well as a lot of energy and excitement to help you and the people of Bamyan.”

NZ Army Col. Martin Dransfield, NZ PRT cmdr, accompanied the visitors to the ANP HQ in Bamyan. “The arrival of TF Wolverine is the start of an important chapter for us,” said Dransfield. “Our combined focus will be supporting the police. Also, we would like to thank Gen. Culver for the dedication and hard work he's given us.”

TF Cyclone will be finishing out their tour in Kabul. “I'm happy to be taking over for TF Cyclone. I'm very happy to have Col. Berry with me on my team. He has 21 years of professional police experience, and he'll be leading the team here in Bamyan,” said Roy.

Cmdr Gen. Joseph Culver, bids farewell to Gen. Qudsi.

TF Cyclone cmdr, Gen. Culver, and NZ Army Col. Martin Dransfield, watch as local contractors in Bamyan build desks for a school.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

TF Destroyer evaluates various civil projects

By Army Staff Sgt. Gary Witte

KUNAR PROVINCE – Army Soldiers with 2nd Plt, Troop B, 3rd Sqdrn, 61st Cav Regt, TF Destroyer, conduct a patrol along the Kunar River in the Naray District, March 7. The ISAF unit was evaluating various civil projects in the area.

Army Soldiers pause during a patrol along the Kunar River. The canal is part of a hydroelectric project designed to give power to residents in Naray District. ISAF were evaluating the progress made on the project.

Spc. Roy Chamberlain, a gunner with 2nd Plt, peers over a canal wall.

Spc. Alex Folmar, a gunner, pulls security.

Pfc. Jaron Nigoza, a gunner, pulls security.

1st Lt. Rahul Harpalani, platoon leader, meets with Naray Primary School officials at Jaba Village. The unit stopped by the village during a patrol, to evaluate the condition of the school.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Parwan PRT ready for business

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – A reconstruction team solely dedicated to Parwan prov. is open and ready for business here. The Parwan PRT is made up more than 90 military and civilian employees from the Navy, Army, AF, Depts of State and Agriculture, U.S. Agency for Int'l Development, USACE, and linguists.

The mission of the PRT is to help conduct counterinsurgency and stability ops in the prov., in order to separate anti-Afghan forces from the population. Another focus for the team is to connect the people to competent, capable and credible Afghan institutions, as well as to help transform the districts of Parwan into functioning districts under the GoA and the provincial gov.

“I'm excited to be here and working in Parwan Prov.,” said Navy Cmdr. Kyle Higgins, Parwan PRT cmdr. “My team and I are looking forward to assisting the local govt develop the prov’s infrastructure and economy.”

“There's a lot of potential in Parwan, and I’d like to focus my team on finding the potential in all the prov’s districts,” the cmdr said. “Our goal is to identify projects we can help the govt with that will better the lives of the people living here, and to set our replacements up for success.”

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DoD Imagery

(DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Gary Witte, Army)

Army soldiers with 2nd Plt, Co D, 2nd Bn, 12th Inf Regt, TF Lethal prepare to move from cover during an attack by anti-Afghan forces in Tantil village, Kunar prov., March 13, 2010. ANSF and ISAF visited the community, because of a high number of recent attacks in the area.

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Iraqi Stories:

DVIDS

49th MP Brigade Participates in Historic Election

Story by Spc. Edward Siguenza

Soldiers from the 49th MP Bde (Spc. Wesley Adams, left, Spc. Rommel Vazquez, right, and Staff Sgt. Keith George, hidden) greet IP officers. The Soldiers are members of the 49th's Personnel Security Detail, who played a key role for the California bde, during Iraq's national election March 7.

CAMP LIBERTY – Add another chapter into the 49th MP Bde's history book. The Fairfield-based unit of the California Army NG, shared a part of this country's historic effort March 7 when millions voted in Iraq's national election. The 49th sent its own Soldiers into Baghdad to assist IP with various security ops, and like the nation's citizens, the IP and the 49th braved a barrage of incidents that tried to lure voters away from polls.

California NG got on-hands involvement that day, with assistance from the 229th MP Co from the Virginia Army NG – one of two subordinate units at Camp Liberty. Soldiers roomed and ate with Iraqi counterparts for days leading up to the election.

Maj. Jeanette Stuart, 49th's officer-in-charge of IP services national transition team, led the Patrol HQ element. She led a team of 6 who served as the "conduit" for getting info to and from USF-I and the Iraqi Patrol Police.

"The 49th has been partnering with various IP agencies in Baghdad to provide mentoring, training, support and assistance, as required," said Stuart. "The IP Services successfully assisted in providing security for the GoI Elections. They were able to prevent violent extremists from influencing or disrupting the Iraqi election process. The public gained confidence in the IP's ability to provide civil security."

"When our team first arrived they (IP) were a little hesitant to have a female officer-in-charge living and working with them in close quarters," Stuart said. "After the first day, the barriers disappeared and they would freely ask me questions and give me info."

This election, says Brig. Gen. Donald Currier, cmdr of the 49th MP Bde, was of special interest. When the 49th deployed in 2005-06, he witnessed the Dec. 2005 general election. The 49th was strongly involved with that process by directing IPs, but this year, the 49th was in a supporting role, said Currier. The unit became the important front seat passenger, but not the driver. It observed and provided advice. It let the Iraqis run their own op.

Neither the 49th or 229th was called upon. That's credit to the IP for having control of their op. "The take-away from this event is that the IP have dramatically increased their professionalism, capabilities and leadership," Currier added. "They can still benefit from U.S. partnership, but that's no longer a junior-senior partnership. It's a partnership of equals -- each with strengths that benefit one another."

Back at Camp Liberty, the rest of the 49th tended to daily operations. Soldiers still heard the distant blasts and explosions. To them, it was the sound of a new era in Iraq. It was the sound of courage – of people not deterred by bombs but determined to better their country by voting.

At Camp Shield, Spc. Jose Defuentes and Sgt. Frank Martinez synchronize communication devices before a mission through Baghdad. The Soldiers are Personnel Security Detail members of the 49th MP Bde.

Sgt. 1st Class Arne Eastlund works regularly with IP. The 49th MP Bde's NCO-in-charge of the PTT led an element that assisted IP.

Staff Sgt. Brian Bullock, member of the 49th MP Bde's Personnel Security Detail, checks his weapon's scope prior to heading on a mission. More than a dozen PSD Soldiers braved Baghdad's roads during the election.

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Soldiers Patrol, Respond to Small Arms Fire

(Photos by Sgt. Jason Stewart)

TIKRIT - Army Staff Sgt. Miguel Rodriguez, serving in Alpha Btry, 2/32 FA in support of 4th IBCT, 1st ID from Fort Riley, Kan., leads his plt tactically after receiving small arms fire, during a routine security mission, March 17. Alpha Btry troops are trained to counter all threats to their co., and their mission.

Staff Sgt. John Kratz coordinates clearing the area after receiving small arms fire.

Soldiers secure the area and rush U.S. civilians back to the convoy of WRAP vehicles.

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Maj. Rudd Lectures at Basra University College of Med.

(Photos by Staff Sgt. Adelita Mead)

BASRA - Army Maj. Anthony Rudd, the bn surgeon and public health advisor for the 486th CAB, lectures students at the Basra University College of Medicine (BUCM), on chest pain, March 16.

Iraqi medical students at the BUCM listen to a lecture.

Staff Sgt. Cody Ruthardt, left, and Maj. Anthony Rudd speak with Dr. Abassi, the vice dean of the BUCM. The dean approved of the lecture on chest pain given by Rudd, and welcomed future visits from the PRT, as they build their ongoing relationship.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE – Army Staff Sgt. David Briggs, squad leader for 1st squad, MP plt, HHC, 4th BSTB, TF Gryphon, shakes hands with a young villager in the Surkh-Rod district, March 10. ISAF were there to view the future location of a carpet factory. ISAF regularly patrols the district, ensuring security and timely implementation of community development projects.

Sgt. Isaiah Oliver, a team leader with 1st squad, talks with a villager.

1st Lt. John Holland, plt leader, discusses community development projects with a leader of the Surkh-Rod District.

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CJTF 82 Public Affairs, Bagram Media Center

Ghazni City Hospital and Orphanage Projects brings hope

By Jason Thomas

Afghan women work as a team, March 9, to refurbish the Ghazni Hospital and Orphanage, a project supported by the Central Asia Development Group and Food Insecurity Response for Urban Populations program. The project will provide care for orphaned Afghan children, and provide jobs for 201 women and 53 men.

GHAZNI PROVINCE – The Ghazni hospital and orphanage project launched March 9, in Ghazni City, and construction began March 11, with the support of the Central Asia Development Group, an implementing partner of the U.S. Agency for Int'l Development, and Food Insecurity Response for Urban Populations program, a USAID program.

The Ghazni City Orphanage will help Afghan children who have lost their parents from war ops, or from a lack of access to proper medical treatment. There are currently 45 children, originally from Ghazni, Wardak and Paktika provs, between 7 and 15 years old, who are staying permanently at the Ghazni Orphanage, and there are 120 children who attend classes during the day.

Due to a severe lack of funds, the facility is in need of refurbishment. A very low budget in the Social Affairs Dept dedicated for orphanage maintenance has resulted in improper living and learning conditions. Another problem facing the orphanage, is that workers don't have any equipment to wash and clean bed linens or clothes.

CADG is solving the problem of insufficient funding and high unemployment rates in Ghazni City with the help of the FIRUP program. The plan is to refurbish the wards of the Ghazni Hospital and Orphanage. Currently, the buildings require general refurbishment, extensive hygienic cleaning, electric repairs, plumbing works and painting.

The orphanage kitchen and dormitories also require painting, door and window replacements, installation of water pump for hygienic purposes, yard gardening, area cleaning and a small playground. The playground equipment has been donated by funds raised from the family of a U.S. civilian who was killed in action in Ghazni.

For the past 70 years, the Ghazni Provincial Hospital has been in operation, and it's the main healthcare facility in the prov. Patients arrive here for treatment from all of the districts in Ghazni prov., as well as from Paktika, Wardak, Uruzgan, Zabul and Paktya provs.

In Afghanistan alone, there are more than 2.1 million orphans whose parents lost their lives to war or improper medical treatment. In fact, Afghanistan has one of the highest infant mortality rates in the world: 165 infants out of 1000 births die, and the maternal mortality ratio is just as grim at 1600 deaths per 100,000 births.

Ghazni City Provincial Hospital, one of the largest medical establishments in southeast Afghanistan, treats more than 67,000 patients per annum. The admission rate is approx 11,000 patients yearly. The hospital includes pediatric, surgery, internal and maternity wards, malaria treatment and vaccination rooms.

Dr. Ziagul Esfandi, Dir. of Health in Ghazni, speaks to Afghan women about the Ghazni Hospital and Orphanage project.

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CJTF 82 Public Affairs, Bagram Media Center

Military Police patrol Beshood district

By Army Spc. Albert Kelley

NANGARHAR PROVINCE – Army Sgt. Robert Graham is greeted by young villagers during a mission to assess an irrigation ditch-clearing project in the Beshood district, March 11. ISAF regularly patrols the district, ensuring security and timely implementation of community development projects. Graham serves as a team leader with 2nd squad, MP plt, HHC, 4th BSTB, TF Gryphon.

Sgt. Joseph Dickenson, team leader of 2nd squad, provides security as his unit departs the site of an irrigation ditch-clearing project.

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CJTF 82 Public Affairs, Bagram Media Center

Afghans listen to their protectors

An ANA officer explains to a crowd of Afghans traveling on the Alishang road that there'll be a search on the road for IEDs, March 10.

LAGHMAN PROVINCE – ANA and CF conducted a joint patrol along a local Road in order to disrupt insurgent improvised explosive emplacement. Nearby, ANA forces conduct a cordon and search mission for a known Taliban cmdr and IED material, March 9. Despite insurgent threats, Afghan military leaders are stepping forward and speaking directly to the public regarding their plans for better security.

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Iraqi Stories:

DVIDS

Soldier Receives Tribal Honor for Service in Iraq

(Photo by Cody Harding)

WASIT - Lt. Col Mike Bush greets the sheik of the Katawi Tribe during a meeting, March 2. The sheik bestowed the Yashmagh and Agal to Lt. Col. Bush. The Yashmagh and Agal, the black wool headband, are symbols of respect, that haven't been formally presented to an American since Lawrence of Arabia.

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DVIDS

'Sons of Anarchy' Salute Air Cav Soldiers With Visit

(Photos by Sgt. Travis Zielinski)

CAMP TAJI - Riding in UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter from 3rd Bn, 227th Aviation Regt, 1st ACB, 1st Cav Div, U.S. Div–C, March 15, Dayton Callie, an actor in the television show "Sons of Anarchy," gives a nervous reaction to the movement of the aircraft, inciting a hearty laugh from Command Sgt. Maj. Glen Vela, command sgt maj of the unit. 1st ACB hosted 4 actors from the TV show, offering Soldiers an opportunity to talk with the actors over lunch and a town hall meeting.

While sitting in an AH-64D Apache attack helicopter, Kim Coates talks with Chief Warrant Officer 3 Rolando Sanchez, an Apache maintenance test pilot in Co C, 1st Bn, 227th Aviation Regt, about some of the various controls and functions of the aircraft. Coates is a lead actor in the television show, "Sons of Anarchy."

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USF-I

ISF arrest suspected AQI attack planner

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested 4 suspected terrorists, March 18, during 2 joint security ops carried out in central and northern Iraq to capture suspected AQI members believed to be responsible for coordinating deadly attacks throughout the country.

In western Baghdad, ISF and U.S. advisors searched a residential building for a suspected AQI member who on credible intel, indicates is planning upcoming attacks against Iraqi govt officials. Following preliminary questioning and an initial examination of the evidence at the scene, ISF identified and arrested the wanted AQI attack planner and 2 suspected criminal assocs.

During a 2nd security op conducted in a rural area located approx 124 km SW of Kirkuk, the 3rd ERU and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspected AQI leader, who is believed to have coordinated attacks throughout the country, in addition to having recruited foreign terrorists from Saudi Arabia and Syria. Info and evidence gathered at the scene led IP to arrest a suspected criminal associate of the warranted AQI leader.

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USF

March 19, 2010

Senior AQI leader killed in Mosul, six suspected terrorists arrested

BAGHDAD - A suspected senior AQI leader was killed and 6 of his suspected criminal assocs arrested March 18, during a series of joint security ops conducted in Mosul to capture the AQI leader and disrupt ops within the terrorist network.

March 18, in central Mosul, the IA and U.S. advisors conducted a vehicle stop on a public road based on credible intel tips that Sheikh Khalid, who is a suspected leader for the AQI terrorist group in northern Iraq, was a passenger. He's believed to have played an integral role in approving AQI ops, including attacks against the Iraqi people preceding and during the recent elections. The security team ordered the men to exit the vehicle, at which point the passenger brandished a pistol and fired a shot that struck a security-team member. The joint security team then returned fire, killing the passenger and slightly wounding the driver. The passenger was later identified as being the warranted individual, Sheikh Khalid.

Following the vehicle stop, 4 joint IA security teams and U.S. advisors also searched several buildings in eastern Mosul, associated with Sheikh Khalid and his terrorist group. Evidence discovered during the op included plans detailing upcoming improvised-explosive attacks against SECFOR. After conducting preliminary questioning and an initial exam of the evidence found during the op, ISF arrested 6 suspected criminal assocs of Sheikh Khalid.

Elders and children came together to build a retaining wall in the village of Kandigal, March 10. After conducting several shuras, village elders and local govt officials contracted and hired 22 villagers that were employed for 30 days while working on the project.

Village elders and members of the development council from Deh Yak and Ghazni PRT met, March 10, in a shura in Deh Yak district. The PRT introduced the contractors of the Ghazni-Gardez Road so they could explain the benefits of the project to the Afghan people.

GHAZNI PROVINCE – The project also includes monies to assist in the development of communities within 2 kms of each side of the Ghazni-Gardez Road. Mike Bois, mgr of the contract for the Ghazni-Gardez Road, told the council about the specifics of the road.

“It will be a roadway 11 meters wide, so you’re going to have 2-meter shoulders that you can actually have your bikes and your carts on, while the traffic is in the roads,” said Bois. “You should be safe along the shoulder.”

Abdus Shinwary, Community Support Program Advisor, who's been working on the project, said that the biggest challenges to finish the road were security and weather conditions.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

ANA learn basic public affairs skills

KUNAR PROVINCE – An ANA soldier learns the basics of news writing and photo editing techniques, March 4. The ANA soldiers will write articles and publish photos they take in field, in an effort to earn the public trust.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

U.S. Public Affairs Personnel Train Afghan Soldiers

By Army Sgt. Andrew Reagan

PAKTYA PROVINCE – AF Airman 1st Class Laura Goodgame, a photography advisor to the public affairs office for the ANA on FOB Thunder near Gardez City, reviews the photos of ANA Staff Sgt. Raouf, the NCO-in-charge. The pair photographed an exercise involving ANA Commandos, as part of the media training. Goodgame and the other members of the Public Affairs Advisory Team on FOB Lightning train their ANA counterparts daily on photography, videography, Adobe Photoshop and other essential public affairs skills.

An ANA soldier practices shooting video at an ANA press conference, March 10.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Khost PRT Transfers Authority

By AF Capt. Angela Webb

The new members of the Khost PRT stand in formation during a Transfer of Authority ceremony at FOB Chapman, March 14. During the ceremony, Navy Cmdr John Pestovic handed over the Khost PRT guidon, marking the assumption of command for U.S. Navy Cmdr Willie Billingslea. (Photos by AF Staff Sgt. Stephen Otero)

KHOST PROVINCE – “Our resolve is unwavering, and we remain steadfast in our mission to work with the people of Khost to support your leaders’ efforts in governance and development,” said event guest speaker Jimmy Story, Dept of State and senior civilian rep for the provs.

Billingslea leads the joint-interagency team of about 100 personnel, who assist their Afghan partners along the 5 lines of effort throughout the 12 districts of Khost. Billingslea said that the tour would be nine months. “We need to take advantage of the time that we have,” Billingslea said. “I promise that Team Khost will work hard and continue the legacy that John Pestovic and the Khostriders have left us.”

In Kandahar March 16, a combined force captured a Taliban bombing cell leader believed to be responsible for directing roadside-bomb emplacement and coordinating supply issues. Two other insurgents also were captured.

In another op, in the Shah Wali Kot district of Kandahar prov., March 16, a combined Afghan-international patrol called for air support after it came under a sustained and intense attack by a large group of insurgents using assault rifles, RPGs and heavy machine guns. ISAF aircraft dropped precision-guided bombs on the positively identified insurgent positions. Damage assessments indicated all of the insurgents were killed.

Afghan-ISAF in the Terayzai district of Khost prov., detained several suspected militants, March 16.

Also March 16, a combined force in the Zormat district of Paktia prov. captured a Taliban sub-cmdr responsible for instructing other militants on building and emplacing roadside bombs, and how to conduct bomb-damage assessments.

Combined Afghan-ISAF patrols discovered 2 significant drug caches in the Bakwah district of Farah prov., March 16. The first cache contained 37 lbs of morphine, more than a half-ton of opium, 220 lbs of soda ash, 66 gallons of ammonium hydroxide, 50 bottles of hydrogen chloride, multiple bags of processed heroin, and narcotics-processing equipment.

The 2nd cache, discovered 2 hours later and about a half-mile away by a separate patrol, contained 10 55-gallon drums of liquid opium, 50 bags of a cutting agent, a large pile of heroin and opium on the ground, pressure cookers with opium cooking inside, scales and narcotics-processing equipment. The drugs and equipment were destroyed on site.

Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel Jennings, the senior enlisted adviser for the 278th ACR, 13th ESC, and Col. Jeffrey Holmes, cmdr of the 278th, case the bde colors during a transfer of authority ceremony, March 12 at COB Taji. The 278th ACR out of Knoxville, Tenn., replaced the 155th HBCT, 13th ESC out of Tupelo, Miss.

COB TAJI - Col. Knowles Atchison, dep. cmdr of the 13th ESC, addressed the outgoing and incoming Soldiers at the ceremony. "The Soldiers of the 155th have denied the enemy to reign in its own back yard," said Atchison. "You have given USF-I operational flexibility and freedom to maneuver on their own terrain, and you have done so with an unprecedented skill, style ... and deadly precision."

The 155th completed over 5,800 convoy-escort missions, and drove more than 500,000 miles during their deployment. The bde's Soldiers encountered 79 IEDs and 72 direct-fire incidents, while sustaining minimal damage, and no major injuries or loss of life.

"I want to welcome the 278th, here for their 2nd tour, and with over 60% of them who were here before, you're a cav regt skilled, trained, experienced and seasoned. You'll deny the enemy to reign. You'll be the ultimate combat multiplier of the 13th, as we provide sustainment all over Iraq. I'm proud to serve with you."

Col. William Glasgow, the cmdr of the 155th, gave the incoming unit some advice to help them succeed. "Just remember a couple of important things: enforce the standards, and ... get Soldiers from point A to point B safely," said Glasgow. "You Soldiers will do a tremendous job. It's going to be different, because there's going to be a tremendous withdrawal while you're here."

Col. Jeffrey Holmes, the cmdr of the 278th, said that his unit appreciated the warm reception. He said the 155th need not worry about the 278th or their mission, because they'd set up the cav regt for success.

"This is a legacy cavalry mission, gentlemen," said Holmes. "The most vulnerable time during a retrograde op in a counter-insurgency fight, and we are at that point. With 3,400 scouts on the routes, we're going to do our mission. We've got Soldiers whose entire career is based on a cavalry mission. We've trained 18 months to be here. We're ready."

Command Sgt. Maj. Glen Davis, the senior enlisted adviser with the 155th HBCT, 13th ESC, and Col. William Glasgow, the cmdr of the 155th case the bde's colors, signifying the end of their deployment.

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Ribbon Cutting for Road Opening

(Army photos Spc. Bryan Rankin)

BAGHDAD - Sheiks from the Radwaniyah prov., and members of CF attend a ribbon cutting ceremony for a road opening in Baghdad, March 15, 2010. The road was built with assistance from the Army, and will give the locals of the area greater ease of travel.

Sheiks from the Radwaniyah prov., wait to greet those attending a ribbon cutting ceremony.

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

School Assessment

(Photos by Staff Sgt. Adelita Mead)

BASRA - Army 1st. Lt. Jeffrey Nickerson from 1st Plt, Bravo Btry, 1-377 FAR, 17th Fires Bde, 1st ID, pulls security for State Dept officials to the Basra Oil Institute in Basra, March 11. The officials are with the PRT out of COB Basra.

U.S. State Department officials Dan Toma and Walt Koenig visit the Basra Oil Institute in Basra, Iraq, March 11. The officials are with the Provincial Reconstruction Team out of Contingency Operating Base Basra.

Iraqi students prepare for a test during classes at the Basra Oil Institute.

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Visit to a local IP station in Al Rimmah

(Photos by Petty Officer 2nd Class Rufus Hucks)

AL RIMMAH - Josh Miller, Law Enforcement Professional, listens to the concerns of a local IP station lt during a visit by the 114th MP Co to Al Rimmah, March 14. The co. makes frequent visits to IP stations throughout Mosul in order to build trust with local policemen.

A gate leading into the ancient city of Ninevah overlooks an IP station during a visit by the 114th MP.

Soldiers of Alpha Co, 2nd Bn, 198th Combined Arms and the troopers of Crusader Troop, 1st Squadron, 278th Armored Cav Regt, gather for a quick brief from Staff Sgt. Dustin Dunn, a plt sgt from Crusader Troop, prior to their departure for a convoy patrol mission to a pump house on the Tigris River.

1st Lt. Rodney Brock, a plt leader in Crusader Troop walks through the gates of a pump house located on the Tigris River in Ninawa prov., and is greeted by Iraqi soldiers in charge of its security.

Soldiers of Alpha Co, 2nd Bn, and the troopers of Crusader Troop, discuss their convoy mission.

Kentucky ADT Lt. Col. Ruth Graves, cuts a portion of the ribbon during a ceremony commemorating the completion of the Salang River Aqueduct Erosin Control Project in Jabal Saraj district, March 8. The project helped save the aqueduct that provides water to about 30,000 families and 90,000 acres of land in the area from collapsing.

PARWAN PROVINCE – When water eroding the banks of the Salang River threatened to destroy an aqueduct and farm land, members of the Kentucky ADT took fluid steps to ensure the longevity of the canal.

The ADT, who is assigned to TF Cyclone, appropriately applied for funds to begin work that would ultimately protect the water from undermining the canal. They collaborated with the USACE, the Parwan Dir. of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, a contracted co., and others to complete the project.

“We are very glad for the work that was done,” the area leader Hamidullah told Lt. Col. Ruth Graves. “The quality of work is very good and all the people in the area are very happy.”

“This project is going to protect the irrigation that is so vital to all the people of this area,” said Graves. “We're very pleased with the way this project came together. It's very good workmanship, and this water will provide irrigation to the people, and benefit the people of Parwan for many years to come.”

Peterson said he enjoyed working with all those who were employed by the project and it was a fun and rewarding experience.

Parwan Gov. Salangi speaks during the ceremony.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Parwan PRT Meeting with Village Elder

(Photos by AF Senior Airman Jim Araos)

PARWAN PROVINCE – Parwan PRT cmdr (middle left), Navy Cmdr. Kyle Higgins, talks with Haji Almoshan, a Qal Eh Nasro village elder, during a key leader engagement, March 9. Topics discussed during this engagement included the possibility of improving the roads, getting more wells for the village, as well as various agricultural and economic issues faced by the people.

Abdul Kabiri, Panjshir Prov. dep. gov., thanked the outgoing PRT, and welcomed the new PRT to his prov., during the Panjshir PRT Transfer of Authority Ceremony, March 9. (Photos by Army Staff Sgt. Donald Reeves)

PANJSHIR PROVINCE – AF Lt. Col. Curtis Velasquez assumed command of Panjshir PRT from AF Lt. Col. Eric Hommel. “I would like to offer my deep appreciation to Lt. Col. Eric Hommel and his PRT, whose success had yielded fantastic results,” Velasquez said during command assumption speech. “I hope to continue your success working with the provincial and district govts as they support the Panjshiris for the greater good of Afghanistan.”

Velasquez is now responsible for all ISAF led governance, reconstruction and security ops in the Panjshir valley, in addition to more than 100 military interagency and Mujahedeen SECFOR personnel. “As a (PRT), we will demonstrate through our actions, that we're worthy of the trust and confidence of the people of Panjshir,” said Velasquez. “Together we will foster a partnership with our fellow Afghans, focused on the highest standards of excellence, with accountability for our actions.”

The Panjshir Prov. dep. gov. said, through a translator, he is looking forward to working with the new PRT. He also highlighted many accomplishments of the outgoing PRT, and said that all of the hard work is an example of the positive things that happen when the govt works with the people.

The excitement of the new team preparing to run the PRT overshadowed the bittersweet feeling Hommel said he had about leaving. “It’s been the experience of a lifetime,” said Hommel. “What you’ll soon learn is that the people of Afghanistan – the people of Panjshir, are good people, and it’s been a pleasure serving them.”

BAMYAN PROVINCE - New Zealand Army Col. Martin Dransfield, New Zealand PRT cmdr, and Dr. Habiba Sarabi, Gov. of Bamyan prov., cut the ribbon opening a new play area in the Pediatric facility at Bamyan Hospital, March 8. Families of the members of the New Zealand PRT funded the play area.

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DVIDS

Local Community Gets Clean Water Thanks to BHG

(Photos by Lance Cpl. Franklin Mercado)

NAW-ABAD - Cpl. David Bernabe, a combat engr with Bde HQ Group (BHG), MEB-A, opens solar panels on a solar-powered water purification system here, Feb 16. The water purification system can filter 60 gallons of water per minute.

1st Lt. Timothy McCormick, asst ops officer, assembles the solar-powered water purification system. The water purification system is meant to be simple to use and easy to assemble.

1st Lt. McCormick drinks freshly-purified water with locals. The water was cleaned with the solar-powered water purification system, which cleans out bacteria and diseases in the water, making it safe for locals to drink.

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DoD Imagery

(DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Dayton Mitchell, AF)

Army Capt. Matthew Rodgers, a surgeon with the 402nd BSB, treats an Afghan farmer at COP Rath in Hutal, March 14, 2010. The farmer was wounded by enemy forces.

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Iraqi Stories:

DVIDS

US military transfers prison to GoI

By Scott Harris

Gulf Region District

TAJI - A new concept in Iraq's corrections system officially became a reality with the turn-over of the Theater Internment Facility Reconciliation Facility Center (TIFRC), March 15. The TIFRC is essentially a detainment center with a goal to provide inmates with an environment where they can learn new skills, and educate themselves to help their families and be productive citizens when they're released.

Until now, the TIFRC has been operated by U.S. forces who have been actively training and mentoring Iraqi Corrections Officers, in preparation for the transition to the Iraqi Ministry of Justice. "Only a small amount of training remains in order to conduct a responsible security transition for the exterior of the facility," according to Maj. Brett Conaway, ops officer for the 211th MP Bn. "U.S. forces will remain in an outside over-watch capacity for a short period, to complete the final transition and facilitate the contract oversight."

The facility consists of 260 general population cells, and a special housing unit that can house up to 5000 detainees. More importantly, the facility includes classrooms, vocational-tech, and a textile mill for training detainees for eventual re-integration into society. Support facilities include a medical center, parole office, judge's chambers, in-processing, a Military Working Dog kennel and a family visitation center.

"This particular project is unique in that it provides facilities for the rehabilitation of detainees," said Lt. Col. Richard Pratt, the dep. cmdr for Gulf Region District, USACE in Iraq. "The focus of this facility goes far beyond simply detaining inmates. It provides another chance for inmates to be reintegrated into society where they can provide for their families and function as responsible citizens," he said.

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USF-I

March 16, 2010

IqAF launches first advanced pilot training program

TIKRIT - The first students have begun classes at the IqAF College, which opened its doors at the Tikrit Air Base, March 11. Ten IqAF pilots are going through the advanced pilot training program on the T-6A to become instructors for other student pilots who will follow.

This program marks the first time IqAF pilots have trained on the T-6A, which is a single-engine, 2-seat training aircraft designed for providing instruction in advanced flying skills. Like U.S. military pilots, the Iraqis must master the T-6A before going on to fly more sophisticated multi-role fighter aircraft.

"The pilots who have been selected to come here today and start training, will be the initial cadre of instructor pilots for the IqAF T-6 program," said Brig. Gen. Scott Hanson, dir. of the Iraqi Training and Advisory Mission. "It's really exciting to be a part of this."

The pilots in training were handpicked by IqAF Cmdr Staff Lt. Gen. Ahmed, who described them as his sons. "I look forward to the future of these pilots because they are the future of the IqAF," Ahmed said. "I hope that one day, one of these pilots will return here to speak to a new class as the IqAF cmdr."

The stringent selection process brings forward only the experienced candidates who are proficient in English as well as flying. "Their English language skills are a critical part of the selection process, because English is the int'l language of aviation," said Hanson.

"I've always been excited about flying the fast jet," said IqAF 1st Lt. Abdulrasaq, one of the new students. "Of course, it's going to be challenging because there is a quite a lot of learning to do, and you have to be physically and mentally fit to do this job. I'm really looking forward to it."

The ITAM-AF instructors displayed similar enthusiasm for the course. "I've never experienced more job satisfaction than I do with just teaching students," said USAF Capt. Daniel Fiedler, an ITAM-AF instructor pilot at the IqAF College. "To do that with these Iraqi pilots is cutting edge. I get to be a part of the initial set of people teaching Iraqis how to do this and realize their dreams," Fiedler said. "For them it's not just the dream of getting to fly an airplane, it's the dream of building their country."

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USF-I

Stability Operations in Iraq Making Headway

By Spc. Jason Kemp

Maj. Andrew Coleman, ops officer, PTT, 1st Bn, 77th AR Regt, inspects some of the old oil pumping equipment at a pumping station in Al Khidr, Feb. 20. New equipment currently operates to push crude oil and natural gas to Basra for refining.

COB BASRA – Though the U.S. has been building up the civilian infrastructure of Iraq since 2003, the sense of ownership and level interest of the people has never been as great as it is now, and that makes all the difference.

For Lt. Col. Paul Schmidt, a civil affairs officer with 1st ID, the change over the years has been noticeable. "My last tour ended just as the surge was beginning in late 2006, so the change is primarily in the atmosphere," he said. "There are still the same great, courageous people to work with, but I sense a much greater feeling of pride and hope for the future now than before."

That pride is being demonstrated in the expectations of the people. "This country is becoming more and more stable, because the Iraqi people are demanding it now in greater numbers," he said. That demand is being met by the local govt and ISF in the provs, overseen by USD-S of which 1st Inf. Div. is the HQ.

"We're really at a point where stability ops and building civil capacity is extremely important," Schmidt said. "Local govt officials are very effective across the USD-S AO (area of ops), but with increasing stability and effectiveness of ISF, we can really make great progress in assisting the Iraqis with providing services to the people and solving problems."

This civil affairs work includes the promotion of long-term stability, development of sound and responsive democratic institutions, development of a supportive infrastructure, and promotion of a strong free-market economy, as well as civil info mgt, in order to share details on every aspect of the relationship between civilians and military elements.

In addition, Soldiers are involved with programs to assist with governance, rule of law and essential services, often helping Iraqi officials develop projects to improve those areas. CA teams even act as civil liaisons between the Iraqi officials and military cmdrs, and provide the same service to a wide variety of non-governmental and int'l orgs.

"Civil affairs Soldiers made a great impact in Japan and Germany throughout and following WWII, and the same is happening now in Iraq and Afghanistan," Schmidt said.

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Patrol Around Contingency Operating Base Speicher

Photo by Sgt. Jason Stewart

COB SPEICHER - AF Senior Airman Ashley Denielle Casey, of F.E. Warren U.S. AF Base, Wyo., and her partner Airman 1st Class Kristek, of Hickam U.S. AF Base, Hawaii, patrol the streets ensuring both safety on the streets, and in sensitive areas throughout Salah-ad-Din, March 12, 2010. The ops performed by the Provost Marshall's office ensure that in a time of war, that order is maintained during everyday life on COB Speicher.

Ching Eikenberry, wife of the U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan, Karl Eikenberry, shakes hands with an 8-year-old Afghan girl at the Forward Surgical Clinic on FOB Ghazni, March 7. In honor of Int'l Women’s Day, Eikenberry visited Ghazni City to speak to women about unity between genders. She spoke to the crowd about how the young girl’s father was caring for her, and how it had brought them closer together.

GHAZNI PROVINCE – While her husband performed official duties and met with members of the recently inaugurated Provincial Council, Mrs. Eikenberry jointed a panel and discussed issues with and concerning local Afghan women.

The meeting included Shokrieh Vali, Ghazni Dir. of Women’s Affairs, and 2 lawyers from the Ghazni Provincial Council, a medical doctor, the Ghazni Dir. of Health Affairs, and Mrs. Eikenberry.

Eikenberry sent 2 messages to her Afghan sisters and brothers. The 1st was the need to have women and men work together as a team and the 2nd was one of communication. “American people want to know what Afghan people, especially Afghan women, are doing, but they can't all come here,” she said. “So it's my responsibility to go back to the U.S. and tell the American people, especially the American women, what Afghanistan is actually like.”

Eikenberry grew up in a conservative Chinese culture, where women did not have the same opportunities as their male counterparts. However, her generation saw a shift in male and female roles, and she was able to break from that cultural barrier. “My mother used to walk behind my father. I walked with my mother,” she told a hushed audience. “My daughter walks in front of her husband.” The quiet audience exploded with applause.

Her message of unity was also expressed when she mentioned her visit to the Forward Surgical Clinic on the FOB Ghazni that morning. There she had talked to 2 fathers with injured children. Doctors were treating a 10-year-old boy recovering from a fractured leg, and an 8-year-old girl that had been badly burned.

“They take care of their son and daughter every day,” she said. “I asked them, so now you’re not only a father, but you’re also a mother. You take care of a child, how do you feel?” The fathers told Eikenberry that these tragedies had given them the opportunity to care for their son and daughter, and that they had learned about being a mother and about their children. This would not have been the case if the injuries did not occur, since Afghan women traditionally care for the children.

While it was unfortunate that this happened to their son and daughter, it was very fortunate that it brought them together, she said. “I hope we don’t have to pay that price learning about our wives, our husbands, our daughters, our sons.”

Ching Eikenberry is given a decorated shawl and a necklace handmade from the women of Ghazni City.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Oklahoma ADT delivers supplies to Gardez University

By Army Pfc. Christopher McKenna

The contractor of the textbook project displays one of the additional teaching materials supplied by the contract provided by the Oklahoma ADT, March 2. Other teaching materials included posters, models, inflatables, and research equipment.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE – The project, initially started by the Tenn. ADT, equips Gardez University with about 1,700 textbooks and other agricultural education resources. This project will help the university shape its future curriculum, and will provide the students access to the most up-to-date agricultural practices, said Army Col. Amos Chase, Oklahoma ADT cmdr.

In addition to the book delivery, the ADT conducted an assessment of the University’s power supply, computer lab, and satellite system. The current satellite system has the capability to run only 2 computers on the Internet at a time. Chase said that the satellite system needs to be upgraded to a commercial system large enough to run more than 30 computers on the Internet simultaneously, while the power supply requires further assessment by an engr to determine the needs of the University.

The availability of quality higher education is directly dependant on the availability of the latest teaching materials, training models and tools. This project will increase the capacity of the university to provide quality higher education to its students in agricultural training, said Chase.

University attendees helped store the textbooks provided by the program. The books will be unpacked and distributed around campus as needed.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Ghazni PRT supports International Women’s Day

By AF 2nd Lt. Katherine Roling

GHAZNI PROVINCE – Afghan women gathered, March 8, at the Dept of Women’s Affairs in Ghazni city, for Int'l Women’s Day. Distinguished members of the provincial govt congratulated the women on their achievements. The event was supported by the Ghazni PRT.

GHAZNI PROVINCE – Dr. Usman Usmani, Gov. of Ghazni prov., made an appearance and congratulated the women on their accomplishments. Speaking to the crowd, he called for action on women’s rights and integrating them more into Afghan life.

“If we include the women, we could have a whole life,” said Usmani with regards to Afghanistan. The gov. also felt it was time for change. “No one was ready during wartime for women’s rights; there were already too many problems,” he said. “For a couple years, ladies couldn’t go to shops.”

Shokrieh Vali, Dir. of Women’s Affairs in Ghazni, hoped for a better future for the young women in Afghanistan. “One of the biggest problems here is that there are no safe houses for women,” said Vali after the convention. “When the ladies leave jail, they have no place to go. They go to hotels or cousins’ houses.” Vali also wants to see more opportunities for women. “We need women’s education for doctors and engrs,” she said.

Abdul Bayat, with the Roshna-ee Social Services Org., a nongovernmental org., said that Ghazni city was seeing changes, but the villages in the prov. did not have the same luck. “We need to focus on districts far from the cities,” said Bayat. “They don’t know about their basic rights.” However, Bayat has seen changes throughout the country. “During the Taliban’s rule, women couldn’t go outside of their homes,” he said. “Under Karzai’s government, it has changed.”

Shokrieh Vali speaks to a crowd, at the Dept of Women’s Affairs. Vali desires more job opportunities and protection for women.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Paktika PRT changes hands

By AF 2nd Lt. Mark Lazane

Paktika provincial Gov., Abdul Katawazay addresses fellow Paktika govt leaders and U.S. military members, during the relief in place/transfer of authority ceremony at FOB Sharana, March 10. Navy Cmdr. Brian Hoyt took command of the Paktika PRT from outgoing Navy Cmdr. Timothy Cauthen. Paktika PRT is a joint team whose mission is to help legitimize the GoA through development, governance and agricultural initiatives. (Photos by AF Master Sgt. Demetrius Lester)

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – “This is a noble cause and it’s worth fighting for,” said Hoyt. “Everyone who is here today, whether American or Afghan, has made a commitment to this fight.”

Hoyt leads a team of about 100 AF, Army and Navy service members from active duty, Reserve and NG units across the country. In addition, the PRT has several civilian workers from the Dept of State, U.S. Agency for Int'l Development, the U.S. Dept of Agriculture, and the local community.

“CF have done outstanding jobs on security for Paktika,” said event guest speaker Paktika Gov. Katawazay. “A long time ago, Paktika didn’t have very good development, but now we can see development here. Paktika didn’t have schools, roads and bridges, but now we can see these developments for Paktika.”

Hoyt took command of the Paktika PRT team from Navy Cmdr. Timothy Cauthen. “The Afghan people have a saying, ‘one flower does not a spring make,’ but when I look around, I see many flowers and I know that spring is coming,” said Hoyt.

Hoyt also directed some comments at the provincial gov. “The team that stands before you represent the best America has to offer. I stand shoulder to shoulder with you. You have our full commitment that we're dedicated to defeating this insurgency. I can't know for certain what steps we'll take together, but I assure you we're ready to assist you in your job.”

Navy Cmdr. Hoyt speaks with Paktika govt leaders after the relief in place/transfer of authority. Govt leaders as well as local Afghans gave Cmdr Hoyt a warm reception after Paktika Gov. Katawazay in his keynote address expressed great confidence in the new PRT leader.

BAGHDAD - In Tarmiyah, north of Baghdad, Iraqi forces and U.S. advisors searched 2 buildings for a suspected AQI leader who allegedly provides financial support, explosives and weapons to numerous terrorist cells operating in the region.

The building in which the wanted individual was found also contained a hidden room where the security team discovered several AK-47 assault rifles and cases of ammo.

After conducting preliminary questioning and examining the evidence collected at the scene, Iraqi forces identified and arrested the wanted man and a suspected criminal assoc.

During a 2nd op in SW Baghdad, Iraqi forces and U.S. advisors searched a building for a suspected mid-level AQI leader who is believed to have helped in planning past high-profile vehicle-bomb attacks in the Iraqi capital. Info and evidence gathered during the op led ISF to identify and arrest the wanted man.

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USF-I

ISF arrest suspected Mosul AQI leader, Kirkuk IED-cell member

BAGHDAD - In western Mosul, March 15, ISF and U.S. advisors searched 3 buildings for a suspected AQI leader believed to have played a key role in acquiring vehicles and weapons used to carry out assassinations in the northern-Iraqi city. After conducting preliminary questioning and an initial exam of the evidence during the op, ISF identified and arrested the warranted AQI leader and 6 suspected criminal assocs.

During the 2nd security op in southern Kirkuk, the 3rd Emergency Services unit and U.S. advisors searched a residential building for a suspected mid-level AQI leader for Kirkuk and Diyala provs believed to be an expert IED maker, responsible for multiple attacks and kidnappings in the region. Info and evidence gathered at the scene led IP to identify and arrest the wanted AQI leader and a suspected criminal assoc.

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USF-I

Baqouba Hospital receives new surgical wing

By Mike Scheck

Gulf Region District

BAQOUBA - March 15, 2010 - Five years ago the USACE completed extensive renovations to the Baqouba General Hospital. Now Army Corps engrs are taking the project a step further with the addition of a medical wing to the hospital, providing needed medical care services for more than 300,000 residents. Engrs from the USACE Gulf Region District, Balad Resident Office are managing construction of the 6,000 square meter addition to be completed later this year.

The expansion is designed to lighten the workload of a hospital that currently treats between 400 and 500 patients every day. The hospital expansion provides a much needed boost in medical care for the Diyala Prov., according to Dr. Jasim, a physician and member of the technical staff for the project. "Diyala is a large prov. with a low percentage ratio of hospital treatment facilities to population," Jasim said. "This facility represents the only special medical center in the prov., that provides unique surgical care to the region."

The hospital will serve as an example of the new advanced hospital technology that is being built with the cooperation of the Iraqi Ministry of Health and the USACE, according to Jasim, "It's a project that was constructed through the hard work of Iraqi engrs and construction workers. We can all be proud of this achievement," he said.

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United States Forces - Iraq

Two suspected weapon facilitators detained by ISF

TIKRIT -- ISF, with U.S. advisors, detained 2 suspected ISI weapons facilitators in the village of Sharqat, Salah ad-Din prov. March 15. ISF arrested the suspects for allegedly manufacturing and distributing IEDs and weapons in Salah ad-Din and Ninawa provs.

The 2 suspects are believed responsible for transporting IEDs and weapons into Mosul, from a shop in Sharqat and a location in Bayji. One of the individuals is suspected of repairing damaged weapons prior to their sale.

Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Hall (right), the ISAF and USF-Afghanistan's senior enlisted service member, speaks with members of the 5th Stryker BCT. Hall was part of a unit visit by the Army Materiel Command.

FOB WARRIOR - A soldier with the Kirkuk Combined SECFOR scans a hillside for suspicious activity during a patrol with Alpha Co, 1st Bn, 30th Inf Regt, 2nd Bde, 3rd ID out of Fort Stewart, Ga., north of Kirkuk, March 12.

A Soldier of Alpha Co wearing his Combined SECFOR 'Golden Lion' insignia during a patrol with his fellow Iraqi CSF soldiers.

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Blackanthem Military News

Providers support movement-control ops

By 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) Public Affairs

A civilian contractor watches over an outbound KBR, Inc. convoy leaving the Convoy Support Center, March 9. The 858th Movement Control Team, 49th Transportation Bn, 13th ESC tracks and coordinates the movement of inbound and outbound cargo.

(Army photo by Spc. Michael Camacho)

JOINT BASE BALAD - Soldiers with the 858th Movement Control Team (MCT) are responsible for the quality control of cargo being transported through JBB, and its surrounding bases.

At the traffic-control point at JBB, the 858th MCT tracks the time and movement of military convoys, route clearance teams, patrols and private security companies entering and exiting the base, said Capt. Timothy Wolters, cmdr of the 858th MCT, 49th Transportation Bn, 13th ESC.

Traffic-control points act as the first check-in for convoys moving cargo into theater, said Wolters. The 858th manages military, as well as American and foreign-national civilian convoys in the staging lanes of the convoy support center, he said.

The 858th MCT supports the largest area of op of any MCT in Iraq, said 1st Lt. Randell Krug, the unit's mobility officer. As an area support MCT, the 858th provides movement control ops for roughly 10 bases in the Diyala Prov., he said. More than half the cargo moving from the north and east to the south will pass through JBB, said Krug.

Since its time in theater, the 858th MCT has sent out 2 mobile teams to coordinate movement ops for redeploying units in the Diyala Prov. area, one at COB Warhorse and another at COS Caldwell, said Wolters. "They supervised the upload of cargo and verified what cargo was on what convoys," he said. "They sent that info back to (JBB) so we could track it when it came through here. We had visibility on it until it went down to Kuwait."

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Blackanthem Military News

36th STB remembers the Alamo

By 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) Public Affairs

The flag of the Texas revolution, said to have been flown during the Battle of the Alamo in 1836, flies March 6 over COB Adder, in remembrance of those lost.

COB ADDER - Soldiers with the 36th STB out of Temple, Texas, held a memorial to commemorate the Battle of the Alamo. The battle was a 13-day siege that began Feb. 24, 1836, when the first units of Mexican Gen. Antonio Lopez of Santa Anna's army reached Bexar, modern day San Antonio, and ended March 6, 1836, with the slaying of all the Alamo's defenders.

1st Lt. Beverly Hutchins, a personnel mgt officer with the 36th STB, 36th Sust Bde, 13th ESC, was the master of ceremonies for the event. The defenders of the Alamo were not just European settlers. They embodied the true diversity of America, including people of both Mexican and African American descent, said Hutchins. It's because of this diversity that many historians refer to these Americans living in Mexican Texas as Texians, she said.

During the ceremony, Hutchins read a letter written Feb. 24, 1836, by Lt. Col. William Barrett Travis, cmdr of the Texian forces defending the Alamo, to the people of Texas and to all Americans. "The enemy has demanded a surrender at discretion, otherwise, the garrison are to be put to the sword if the fort is taken," she read. "I have answered the demand with a cannon shot and our flag still waves proudly from its walls. I shall never surrender or retreat."

The Battle of the Alamo is seen by many as a story of courage in the face of overwhelming odds. Master Sgt. Jeffrey Scott, the NCO-in-charge of plans and ops for the 36th STB, said that he feels the lesson of the Alamo is having the courage to fight for what one believes is right.

"Even though they were almost certain that they were not going to survive, they thought it was right and they were willing to lay down their lives for it," he said.Scott said he felt honored to be a part of the ceremony, remembering the courage of the fallen Soldiers of the Alamo. "Like the Texians of 1836, the Texans of 2010 stand in defense of liberty and freedom," said Hutchins, "and like Lt Col Travis and the defenders of the Alamo, we are guided by the Code of Conduct which reads, 'I will never surrender of my own free will.' Just as Santa Anna's army did at the Battle of San Jacinto, let our enemies now tremble upon hearing the words, 'remember the Alamo!'"

Three Soldiers with the 36th STB raise the flag of the Texas revolution.

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United States Forces - Iraq

ERB arrests suspected Al Qaeda cell leader in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - An element of the Iraqi ERB, along with U.S. forces advisors, arrested the suspected leader of an al Qaeda cell in Al Fadil, Baghdad, March 12. Intel reports indicate the suspect commands an al Qaeda cell operating in Baghdad.

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USF-I

(Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Rufus Hucks)

Children in Sheikhika gather for photographs with U.S. 9th Field Artillery Soldiers on Election Day, March 7, 2010.

KUNAR PROVINCE - Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Amy Mejstrik and Army 1st Lt. Vinodhini Darmarajah, both with the Kunar PRT, spend time with some of the children at the Int'l Women's Day Celebration in Asadabad, March 8. More than 150 women from Asadabad and surrounding areas joined together to celebrate the event.

Nasima Shafiq, dir. of Women's Affairs, speaks.

U.S. women from the Kunar PRT, 984th MP Co, TF Rock, and Dept of State Rep attended the celebration.

1st Lt. Mary Feeley poses with children.

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DVIDS

Marines, Afghan Forces Meet Locals in Marjah, Hear Concerns

(Photos by Lance Cpl. James Clark)

MARJAH - Marines with 3rd Plt, Bravo Co, 1st Bn, 6th Marine Regt walk alongside Afghan civilians, while on patrol in western Marjah, March 1. As the fighting draws down throughout the city, Marines and Afghan army soldiers have set about providing security to social and economic centers in the area, in an effort to make the area safe for people to return to their homes.

Lance Cpl. Mark Middendorf greets Afghan farmers while on patrol.

Marines set out on patrol.

Marines patrol the roads in western Marjah.

Marines speak with a local mullah outside of a mosque.

A Marine high-fives an Afghan boy.

Marines provide security while out on patrol as children go about their daily chores in Marjah.

BAGRAM AIRFIELD - The 3rd CAB, TF Falcon cmdr, Col. Don Galli, (center) speaks to Brig. Gen. Barat (left), the wing cmdr of the ANA Air Corps, and Gen. Lawang, ANA Commando cmdr, during a briefing prior to the opening ceremony of the ANSF Air Assault Academy, March 6 at Bagram Airfield.

ANA Commandos gather together with ANA Air Corps crew chiefs to pose with their leaders for an inaugural class photo after the opening ceremony of the ANSF Air Assault Academy.

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Iraqi Stories:

DVIDS

Oregon NG Provide Force Protection

VICTORY BASE COMPLEX - Pfc. Alexander Miller, an armored inf cav scout with A Troop, 1st Sqdrn, 82nd Cav Regt, 41st IBCT, 13th ESC, talks to an Iraqi child, while his family member goes through the screening process, March 8, at entry control point 13 at Victory Base Complex.

Sgt. Mark Benson, a force protection NCO at entry control point 13 scans the eyes of a local national, before allowing him to enter Victory Base Complex.

Pfc. Alexander Miller, an armored inf cav scout with A Troop, shakes hands with a local national, at entry control point 13. All local nationals must pass through a tiered screening process before they are allowed to enter the base.

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DVIDS

A Patriot of Two Countries

By Spc. Shantelle Campbell

2nd Lt. Aldo Grados (left) of Ica, Peru, a plt leader with 4th BSTB, 1st ID out of Fort Riley, Kan., joined the Peruvian Navy at the age of 16. He's shown here with his best friend at the age of 17.

TIKRIT –After 3 years of attending a military high school in Peru and spending a year in college for dentistry, 2nd Lt. Aldo Grados of Ica, Peru, decided to join the Peruvian navy. He was 16.

"I was very young when I joined the naval academy, actually," he said. "I went to the academy for 5 years. I was close to 21. It was a very good experience.The years that I started in the military back in Peru were, in a way, what the U.S. calls 'old school,'" he added. "The discipline was very, very strict and loyalty was one of the basic values that they taught you. If you weren't loyal to your peers, then that meant you weren't loyal to anybody, not even to yourself."

Grados' path to the U.S. was one built by intrigue and opportunity. As an officer in Peru, Grados was afforded the privilege of attaining an int'l visa, which gave him the chance to work in many different countries.

After working for 9 months on a boat that traveled from the east coast of the U.S. to England, France and South America, Grados decided to take a vacation to Los Angeles. "I'd some family over there, and man, it was amazing," Grados said. "I felt more freedom, and that made me fall in love with this country. I mean I could have everything that I never had before."

After spending time in the U.S., Grados went back to Peru to inform the Peruvian navy of his decision to become a civilian, and start making a living in the U.S. "They told me OK, you can get out, but you will get out without benefits, and you'll leave with the rank that you have right now, which back then at that time I was supposed to be a captain, but they just let me go as a 1st lt."

In 2006, Grados got tired of the civilian life and enlisted into the U.S. Navy. While in the Navy, Grados got his U.S. citizenship, and submitted a packet to become an officer. Instead of going to Officer Candidate School for the Navy, Grados attended OCS to become an officer for the Army in Jan. of 2009, where he also met his wife.

"We have plans to see what happens. If everything goes right and we follow the track, we'll be OK. Sometimes you have to put the balance between your family and work," he said. Grados plans to join SF and make a career out of the military. He also wants to someday write a book about his experiences."You should never stop dreaming. A dream is beautiful because it can come true," Grados said. "Look at me; I'm living my dream right now."

After receiving his U.S. citizenship, 2nd Lt. Aldo Grados (left) became an officer for the Army. He's shown here with fellow Soldiers after arriving in Iraq.

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DVIDS

4-2 Legal Office Settles Old Debts

(Photos by Sgt. Bryce Dubee)

CAMP LIBERTY - Sgt. 1st Class Phillip Neal, the 4th Stryker BCT, 2nd ID's legal office's NCO-in-charge, counts out money to be paid to an Iraqi woman for her land, which had been leased by the U.S. military. March 10 was the first time in several years that land leases had been paid out by the U.S. military in Iraq. The 4th SBCT legal office handles about 25 foreign claims a month, paying for accidental damages and property loss incurred by Iraqi citizens, as well as land leases from Iraqi landowners.

Capt. Alex Arca, the claims, contract and fiscal law attorney for the 4th Stryker BCT, 2nd ID's legal office, signs paperwork during the processing of a foreign claim.

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Iraqi Security Officials Meet at the Basra Ops Center

(Photo by Staff Sgt. Adelita Mead)

Army Maj. Marc Staats and IA Staff Col. Ali Jabar, raise their hands in a symbol of unity at the Basra Ops Center in Basra, March 6. The BaOC is the hub of joint military ops in the southern district of Iraq.

Army Maj. Christian Jenni, Alpha Co cmdr with the 405th CAB, greets a local resident at Jani Kheyl, Paktya prov., during a civil assistance mission, March 1. Jenni advised Soldiers from the ANA who conducted the mission. He also assessed several construction projects in the village in various states of completion, including a district center, mosque and a dam.

PAKTYA PROVINCE – Calling the civil affairs team at FOB Lightning a “team” is a stretch. A more fitting title would be “civil affairs duo.” However, Maj. Christian Jenni and Staff Sgt. Jeremy Hancock don't let any obstacles stop them from keeping the people of eastern Afghanistan safe, and helping them achieve a better life.

Jenni said that his company has about 40 soldiers, spread out in 6 teams in 10 locations across 5 provs. Two locations are in areas so dangerous that helicopters only fly there at night. Also, due to the remoteness of their locations, it takes at least a week to visit any of his teams, and closer to 2 or 3 weeks if the weather is uncooperative, said Jenni.

This creates logistical problems, as his teams are at bases where supplies are limited. Thus, the only way to deliver needed items for his Soldiers to do their mission is through mail or sending them on a helicopter, he said.

“In Logar prov. we supported the 3rd Bde, STB, 10th Mtn Div,” Hancock said. “The major focus of our team in Logar was to act as liaison with the civilian populace during combat and kinetic ops. Often times we’ll identify mosques, schools and residential areas, and report that info back to kinetic cmdrs. We’ll also meet with village elders, and let them know that the U.S. forces are there to support and help them.”

Hancock has an advantage when meeting with village elders that not all civil affairs specialists have. He is fluent in Dari, after spending a year at the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center in Monterey, Calif.“In a counterinsurgency, you can kill as many enemy forces as you want, and the problem will still exist. The root of the problem is not the people, it’s belief. The only way to win a war is to change a belief. You win the hearts and minds of the people, and you’ve won the war,” said Hancock.

“Our main mission is to tie the people to their govt, and at the same time hold the govt responsible to govern its areas and do its job,” Jenni said. “I’ve been able to see 2 corrupt sub-govs replaced by sub-govs who are eager to make a difference. That’s the kind of leadership that Afghanistan needs. That makes our time here worthwhile.”

Staff Sgt. Jeremy Hancock speaks with an ANA Soldier at FOB Chimcani, during a civil assistance mission to Jani Kheyl. Hancock advised ANA Soldiers, who planned and carried out the mission, which delivered cold-weather clothing, blankets, radios, cooking stoves and school supplies to the villagers.

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DVIDS

Battlefield Circulation Mission/Delivering a Payload

(Photos by Senior Airman Kenny Holston)

This image displays the gunner's view from an MI-17 tactical helicopter, during a battlefield circulation across Southern Afghanistan, March 4, 2010. Gen. Qsime, ANA 205th Corps vice cmdr, and Army Lt. Col. Matthew Bedwell, 205th Coalition Mentor Team dep. cmdr stopped at 4 different FOBs, and visited over 400 205th Corps ANA soldiers to discuss upcoming combat ops, and quality of life issues at each location.

An MI-17 tactical helicopter flies across the Afghanistan countryside during a battlefield circulation mission.

Lt. Col. Matthew Bedwell discusses op issues with an AfNA soldier.

Passengers aboard an MI-17 tactical helicopter prepare to land.

Lt. Col. Matthew Bedwell takes notes about ANA issues.

A pair of Army Chinook Helicopters take off from an FOB in Southern Afghanistan with a significant payload.

A U.S. Army Chinook Helicopter makes its landing approach, in preparation to deliver a humvee to an FOB. The Chinook Helicopter is the Army's primary cargo rotary aircraft, and has been one of the main work horses.

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U.S. Central Command Air Forces

Patrolling and Delivering Supplies

(Photos by Master Sgt. Demetrius Lester)

SHARANA - Paktika PRT members Sgt. 1st Class Jermaine Jones (left), Chief Petty Officer Rhonda Harms (middle), and Sgt. Robby Owens, patrol the streets of Sharana while delivering supplies of women and children's clothes, shoes, and toys, March 7 in preparation for Int'l Women's Day events to be held the following day at the Director of Women's Affairs compound in Sharana. Harms is the communications dept head for the PRT, and is deployed from the Naval Ops Support Center in Austin, Texas, Navy Central MAST A, where she is the Ops/Info Technology dept chief. Jones and Owens are both deployed from Bravo battery 1/178 Field Artillery, S.Carolina Army NG.

Gul Andama (center), dir. of Women's Affairs for Paktika prov., speaks through an interpreter to Trevor Boyd (right), senior Dept of State rep for PRT Paktika, thanking him for more than 1,000 pounds of women's and children's clothing, toys, and bolts of cloth. Female reps of the PRT also discussed the current conditions of women, including education in a very traditional Pashtunwali prov. Following the delivery of supplies, Andama signed a contract codifying a recently approved contract providing vocational training to 30 Afghan women in Paktika prov. PRT Paktika is a joint team whose mission is to help legitimize the GoA through development, governance and agricultural initiatives.

KABUL - An Afghan-ISAF captured a Taliban facilitator March 12, who is believed to be responsible for roadside-bomb attacks in Kandahar prov's Zharmi district, along with 2 other suspects.

In Paktika prov's Zurmat district March 11, a combined force captured a Taliban sub-cmdr responsible for participating in attacks against CF, executing Afghan citizens and conducting battle-damage assessments after Taliban attacks. The assault force also captured 2 other insurgents, and recovered multiple automatic rifles, grenades, ammo and explosives.

In the Garm Ser district of Helmand prov. March 12, a combined patrol found 3 bags of opium weighing 10 to 20 lbd each, a bag of hashish, a 105 mm shell and more than 200 yards of command wire. The force apprehended the suspected insurgent in possession of the cache.

In the Nad-e Ali district of Helmand March 12, a combined force found 6 RPGs, a pressure plate detonator, and 400 rounds of small-arms ammo.

In the Chorah district of Uruzgan prov., March 11, a combined patrol found 12 illumination artillery rounds and 5 mortar casings.

Afghan soldiers working with ISAF members arrested 3 suspected insurgents, March 10 in the Khashroad district of Nimroz prov.

In a separate op that day in Kandahar's Jharai district, Afghan soldiers forces captured 2 insurgents who had been under surveillance for several weeks.

Also on March 10, Afghan soldiers killed an insurgent and captured 4 others in Wardak prov's Maidan district.

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Iraqi Stories:

DVIDS

Saving Lives With a Flashlight

Story by Pfc. Jessica Luhrs

An officer with HHC, 1st BCT, 1st AR Div out of Fort Bliss, Texas, fights off one of her instructors during Sexual Assault Unarmed Self Defense Awareness and Prevention class, held at FOB Warrior.

FOB WARRIOR, KIRKUK -- A group of petite female Soldiers laugh as their instructors, 4 much larger NCOs wince in pain from self-defense techniques they just taught these female Soldiers, that could ultimately save their lives.

These Soldiers were the 1st to participate in a trail program that focuses on teaching the Soldiers self-defense, so that they can better defend themselves against an attacker, according to 1st Sgt. John Lucas, 1st sgt of HHC, of the Ready First Combat Team (RFCT).

During the class a very curious crowd of male and female Soldiers gathered around to observe these females learning to immobilize their attacker, so that they can have enough time to get away; the importance of preserving evidence, and ways to prevent an attack from happening, according to Lucas.

The brigade's sexual assault response coordinator (SARC) had some advice for the Soldiers to prevent an attack. "You must show confidence in yourself at all times," said Sgt. 1st Class Gerald Meineke, the SARC. "Walk with your head high and you'll not be looked at as a victim."

The junior-enlisted Soldiers that participated in the program were also given a very lethal weapon that would scare off any attacker, according the Lucas.This weapon was a flashlight and it's the new best friend of the Soldiers participating in the class. With this the Soldiers can blind, hit and gather evidence, such as DNA or even ID, from their attacker.

Until the classes are scheduled, the instructors have urged their students to go out and teach other Soldiers what they had learned, and to also practice the techniques often, so they don't lose the skill.

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Election Day Security

(Photos by 1st Lt. Becky Bort)

CAMP LIBERTY - Army Pfc. Lucas Corntassle, assigned to Bravo Co, 1st Bn, 38th Inf Regt, 4th Bde, 2nd ID sits in a hatch during a mounted patrol on Election Day. The Soldiers are in the area providing security for polling stations 300 meters away, near Baghdad, March 7.

Sgt. Patrick Audette, assigned to Bravo Co, passes by a sheep herder and his flock on a dismounted patrol during Election Day.

Soldiers of Bravo Co conduct a dismounted patrol.

Soldiers of Bravo Co, and the local IA sit together as the sun rises over Baghdad on Election Day. The Soldiers are at the Iraqi compound providing security.

Soldiers of Bravo Co cross over a canal during a dismounted patrol.

1st Lt. Brandon Scott, 1st Plt Leader, speaks to a local Iraqi man.

Sgt. Michael Glass, weapons squad leader, takes a knee by a canal.

Pfc. Ian Housel, assigned to Bravo Co, launches an RQ-11 Raven as the sun rises, in order to assess atmospherics.

Pfc. Housel controls the RQ-11 Raven.

Sgt. Patrick Audette passes by a sheep herder and his flock.

1st Lt. Brandon Scott speaks to a group of young boys.

Sgt. Matthew Woodruff offers candy to a local Iraqi boy.

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USF-I

ISF capture suspected AQI leaders for Baghdad, Tarmiyah regions

BAGHDAD - In the city of Tarmiyah, located approx 41 km north of Baghdad, ISF and U.S. advisors searched 2 buildings for a suspected AQI leader who allegedly provides financial support, explosives and weapons to numerous terrorist cells operating in the region. The building in which the wanted individual was found also contained a hidden room, where the security team discovered several AK-47 assault rifles and cases of ammo. ISF identified and arrested the wanted AQI leader and a suspected criminal associate, March 13.

During a 2nd security op in SW Baghdad, ISF and U.S. advisors searched a residential building for a suspected mid-level AQI leader, who is believed to have helped plan past high-profile VBIED attacks in the capital. Info and evidence gathered during the op led ISF to identify and arrest the wanted AQI leader.

ISF believe the suspect is responsible for coordinating the transportation of various IEDs and explosives, including magnetic IEDs, from Sulaymaniyah prov., into the Ramadi area of al-Anbar prov. The suspect is also believed responsible for the smuggling of weapons from Bayji, Salah ad-Din prov. to Haditath, al-Anbar prov.

TF Repel Soldiers from the 173rd BSB and Combined Action Partners from the ANA, brave the elements of snow and sleet, as they sprint to the finish during a Combined Action Commander’s Cup at FOB Shank in Logar prov., March 6. The partners competed in a timed series of events including a rucksack run, buddy litter carry, M9 familiarization fire, and a weapons assembly.

LOGAR PROVINCE -- Army Staff Sgt. Kendall Gilbert, the base defense ops NCO for the 173rd BSB, imparted a few words of wisdom to competitors before the start. “It’s a team effort; it’s a team sport, a team competition. It’s going to be physically challenging; it’s going to be mentally taxing. Just make sure you guys pick everybody up, and pick up your teammates,” Gilbert said.

Though the competitors were focused, the mood was still light. “Let’s go out here and have a good time, learn something about our coalition partners, and they’ll learn something about us. We’ll hug and drink chai tea afterwards,“ Gilbert said with a chuckle.

Afterward, Lt. Col. Curtis Johnson, cmdr of 173rd BSB, pointed out the importance of those words of encouragement, and thanked the Combined Action partners for joining and helping their Repel counterparts. “To all the ANA participants, what a great performance. I saw you out there in front; you did a great job. I see some familiar faces from the last competition. Again I’d just like to thank you for a great performance, and for all you do,” Johnson said.

Several of the ANA Soldiers commented on some of the difficult tasks and how their training and the weather played a factor into their performance. ANA Pvt. Himat, a Soldier honored, said the experience was a good one, and that the greatest challenge was the inclement weather. “The problem was that it was raining and snowing; my uniform was drenched,” said Himat. “The competition was like a lesson, and we learned many things from it,” he said.

Bravo team member Pfc. Joseph Machtemes agreed that the weather was the hardest obstacle to overcome. “The snow made it really hard to shoot, blurring the targets, the sweating, breathing really hard,” Machtemes said. In spite of all the obstacles Bravo pushed through. “We do what bravo does best. We’re the muscle of the bn. We just pushed hard right through and kept going,” Machtemes said. Bravo Co took the cup when all was said and done.

Gilbert noted their endurance and exertion. “Bravo won in the end. They just outlasted the rest of the competition. It’s a team effort, so it was a great event,” Gilbert said. Spc. Nathaniel Petter, the Bravo team leader, shared Machtemes’s sentiment. “You had to push your team as hard as you possibly could, keep them going all the way through, and make sure your heart was there,” Petter said. “Our team kept it going, we drove all the way through. The competition was outstanding.”

TF Repel Soldiers and Combined Action Partners brave the elements, as they sprint to the finish.

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American Forces Press Service

Coalition Troops Capture Militant Commanders

KABUL - CF in Afghanistan captured 2 militant cmdrs along with several other insurgents in separate raids, March 8. In Khost prov., a combined Afghan-int'l force arrested a cmdr linked to the Haqqani terrorist network, as well as several suspected associates and some automatic rifles. In Helmand prov., a 2nd combined force captured a Taliban cmdr and an unspecified number of additional suspects.

Each cmdr is believed to lead large units of enemy fighters, responsible for attacks against CF and Afghan civilians, officials said.

In other ops in Afghanistan, several suspected insurgents were arrested in Helmand and Kandahar, and a combined SECFOR found a weapons cache in an abandoned compound, in the Nad-e Ali district of Helmand. The cache contained 15 RPG warheads and 1,100 rounds of ammo. Another patrol in the same district searched a suspected insurgent site and found 25 bags of ammonium chloride, a compound commonly found in explosives.

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CJTF 82 Public Affairs, Bagram Media Center

Two historic firsts in honor of Women's International Day

Gen. Khatol Mohammadzai, the first female parachutist and general in the ANA, stands with women of the TF Bayonet command group, after being dubbed the title of honorary Sky Soldier on Int'l Women's International Day (WID), March 8. (Photo by Army Spc. Daniel Haun)

LOGAR PROVINCE - The 1st event in celebration of WID was a visit to FOB Shank, by the only serving woman general in the ANA and the 1st female parachutist, Gen. Khatol Mohammadzai.

Keeping in theme with the special day of promoting continual progress for women, Gen. Mohammadzai took this opportunity to speak to women Soldiers, highlight their contribution, and also encourage Afghan women to do the same.

“The whole world knows that the military females are real heroes. They're working shoulder to shoulder, and side by side with their male counterparts,” she said. “These women [Soldiers] can make other women braver, and tell them what they do. Just as you made me brave today and convinced me to come to Logar prov., you can convince other ladies to come to the military and work with their male counterparts.

She said that her journey to success was not paved without obstacles, and her own fears. “Becoming a general, especially in Afghanistan as a female, is not an easy thing. I wanted to work hard and show other Afghan females that a woman can be a general,” she said.

However, the event wouldn't have been complete, without Gen. Mohammadzai sharing her 1st flight as a parachutist with the ‘Sky Soldiers’. “The first time I jumped, I screamed so hard, thinking that the parachute was just there, not moving anywhere,” she said. “There was nobody there to help me, and I thought I was just standing there not moving. I was so lightweight that all of my fellow parachutists were already on the ground, and I was still in this sky. When I reached the ground it was so comfortable. I didn’t tell my family, but when my mom found out she was crying and screaming, asking what kind of job I had chosen.”

General Mohammadzai said she hasn’t look back since, and has continued to pushed forward. The 2nd event, celebrating WID’s, and also a historic 1st, took place not far from Gen. Mohadmmadzai’s visit, in the women’s center of the Pul-E-Alam district, where more than 100 women attended, including Gov. Lodin of Logar prov.

“What was unique was having a girl read the Koran to open the ceremony,” said U.S. Army Capt. Ramona Fastow, TF Bayonet’s women’s affairs coordinator. “Literacy rate for women in Afghanistan is about 14 to 15%. The fact that this girl can read and have the support of her family to get up, read in public, gives other women hope.”

By the time the Afghan-led event started, there was only standing room available. Many women were excited to celebrate this day, but some wanted to see more changes, and voice other concerns that would improve the future of Afghanistan for women.

“It’s a good event, hopeful for the women of Afghanistan,” said a woman from the Baraki Barak district. “Compared to when the Taliban ruled, now there’s more freedom. We can go outside.” Another Afghan woman, from the Juyak district said that she would like to see more vocational programs, child-care, and children’s programs on the radio stations.

After watching the Afghan soldiers, Gates addressed the formation. "The future of Afghanistan is in your hands," Gates said to them. "I know you'll make your fellow Afghans proud. We'll be steadfast brothers in arms and friends."

Training the ANSF is a strategic objective for the U.S. and int'l partners, so that Afghans can be responsible for Afghanistan. "This is your country, and ultimately your fight to win," Gates said. The goal is for the ANA to grow to 170,000 and the ANP to grow to 134,000 by October 2011. Gates said he supports Afghan Pres. Hamid Karzai's goal of 300,000 in the SECFOR, calling it realistic, though ambitious.

The Afghan soldiers Gates spoke to will leave Blackhorse, where these units form, and join the fight in Helmand prov. "Recruits come here from basic training and join with their senior leaders," said Army Lt. Col. Brett Sylvia of Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan CSTC-A). The units marry up with their equipment and go through increasingly complex training, starting with squads and moving on to plts., cos., and ultimately the whole kandak (bn).

The Afghan defense minister said he is optimistic about the future. The strategy is clear, he added, and he noted that working with the coalition has allowed Afghan officials to identify problems and craft responses.

Gates stressed how much already has been achieved in Afghanistan and that the surge into the country has only just begun. In the past 3 years, the number of int'l forces has increased by over 100,000, he said, and training over that period has built the size of the ANA, and increased its capabilities.

Since December, thousands of Afghans have volunteered for the army, and Gates expressed his gratitude to the soldiers here for making that decision and assured them of continued support. "Your fellow Afghan soldiers are currently demonstrating valor on battlefield and assuming security responsibilities," he said. "The int'l community is here to support your efforts and help you develop forces."

Army 1st Sgt. James Herrington, the Parwan PRT 1st sgt, talks to children of the Qal eh-ye Nasro village, after a key leader engagement with a village elder in the Parwan prov., March 9, 2010. Topics of discussion include the possibility of improving the roads, getting more wells for the village, and various agricultural and economic issues faced by the people of Qal eh-ye Nasro.

COB WARRIOR - Combat units are the key elements to fighting and winning wars. However, they must function in concurrence with their respective service support elements. So goes the truism, "Tactics win battles; Logistics win wars."

The Soldiers of Troop E are the forward support element for their TF. The "Longhorns" provide motor pool maintenance, food service support, and run 2 Forward Arming and Re-fueling Points for more than 405 Soldiers and civilians.

The Longhorn's distinct mission within TF Lightning Horse is a great source of pride to Capt. Maples, who recently took command. He reflected on his trooper's performance. "It's the largest troop in the sqdrn, and we don't have aviation or warrant officers," he added. "It's more like a traditional co. in the Army." He added, "the Forward Support Troop plays a major role in our current mission, and we're the only ones out here at Warrior, so we're doing it by ourselves. It's an immense job for a small group of Soldiers, but the Longhorns are getting the job done."

Two UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters are re-fueled by Soldiers from Troop E.

Maintenance Soldiers from Troop E load a fuel tank onto a crane, as they prepare to move it from their motor pool for installation.

1st Lt. Frederick Do, A Troop, 3rd HBCT, 3rd ID, briefs his Soldiers before heading out to inspect Iraqi guard towers. The towers are used by the Iraqi Dept of Border Enforcement to help stop smuggling

QADAZILLA - High in the mountains of the northern Kurdish region of Iraq, residents of Qadazilla now have a modern, sanitary meat processing facility, providing fresh meat products to the citizens of northern Iraq, thanks to the efforts of the USACE.

The USACE Gulf Region District, Kirkuk Resident Office served as the mgt partner for construction of the meat processing facility. The govt-run project, which became fully operational this month, was initiated to promote the processing of meat products under sanitary conditions, in an effort to reduce health risks for consumers according to local officials.

According to Maj. Edward Allen, officer-in-charge of the Kirkuk office, there's even a tannery on site to process animal hides, to maximize the animals' economic potential. "This is one of the best built projects I've been associated with since I've been deployed here in Iraq."

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has completed since 2004, 5,257 projects throughout Iraq, and has more than 250 projects ongoing.

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American Forces Press Service

Iraqi Police Arrest 5 Suspected Terrorists

BAGHDAD - In Tikrit, IP and U.S. advisors arrested the suspected AQI leader for the northern cities of Tarmiyah and Mushada, March 12. He is believed to be responsible for numerous bombing attacks. Police also arrested 2 of his associates.

In Latifuyah, south of Baghdad, Iraqi forces and U.S. advisors arrested a man suspected of acquiring funds and vehicles for an AQI cell believed to be responsible for multiple assassinations, robberies and kidnappings of GoI employees. Police also arrested a suspected accomplice.

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DoD Imagery

(DoD photo by Spc. Advin Illa-Medina, Army)

Army soldiers of 1st Bn, 38th Inf Regt, 4th Stryker BCT, 2nd ID walk through a market in Ebnkathwer, Mar. 3, 2010. The mission was part of a pre-election battlefield circulation to give a survey on how the sector is functioning prior to the elections.

Iraq: Small gift creates hope for a better future. Water patrol around Basra. Tenn. NG Soldiers talk with locals and IA voters. An appreciation lunch-in at Gary-Owens.

Joanna

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Afghanistan Stories:

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

RC-East celebrates International Women’s Day

KAPISA PROVINCE – The dir. of Women’s Economic Development in Kapisa prov., Suohailla Kohistani, speaks with women at the DAIL HQ area during the Int'l Women’s Day celebration, March 7. The Kentucky ADT’s Women’s Empowerment Program coordinator, Army Sgt. Jo Lisa Ashley, was also present for the ceremony. (Photo by Army Spc. William Henry)

BAGRAM AIRFIELD -- All across eastern Afghanistan ISAF, ANSF, as well as Afghan women, and provincial govt officials gathered to prepare beforehand to celebrate women’s day on March 8. The day before the celebration, ISAF servicemembers patrolled the streets of Sharana district in Paktika prov, while dropping off women and children’s clothes, shoes and toys in preparation for Int'l Women’s day events, held the following day at the Director of Women’s Affairs compound in the district.

The Laghman prov., dir. of Women’s Affairs, Hanifa Safi, hosted a celebration for Women’s Day, as well as gave a speech regarding the value of women, and equal rights between the genders. The event brought hundreds of women together at the Women’s Affairs Garden in the prov. The provincial leadership will continue to support women’s events and seek opportunities to recognize successful women in the community. Stressing their importance in society, the Laghman provincial gov., encouraged women to keep pressing forward, and welcomed any issues and concerns they have.

The Nuristan PRT’s female engagement team attended a shura on Int'l Women’s Day, in the Nengarach village. Nooristani, an engineer from the Do Ab District, and one of Nuristan’s most successful women, planned the shura to celebrate women’s rights and equality, in the light of Islam. The shura provided an opportunity to build unity among women, Nuristan’s tribes, the Afghan govt officials, and CF. The shura was also an opportunity to speak to others about the civic duty people have to protect those who deliver aid and implement development projects.Many women and young girls, the village Maliks, Afghan govt officials, and the Nuristan female engagement team attended the shura.

In Logar province, more than 100 Afghan women gathered to celebrate the Int'l Women’s Day at the Pul-E-Alam Women’s Center. The event attracted women from several districts with diverse backgrounds. Some women were key speakers and inspired others of the continual progress made so far, while others supported the availability of more training programs and educational opportunities for women. The celebration was attended by the Logar provincial Gov. Lodin, and the dir. of women’s affairs, Ms. Najiba.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – Paktika PRT members, Army Sgt. David Carr (front) and Staff Sgt. John Cardona deliver supplies of women and children’s clothes, shoes, and toys. Both members are on a 1 year deployment from Btry B, 1st Bn, 178th FAR, S.C. Army NG. Paktika PRT is a joint team whose mission is to help legitimize the GoA through development, governance and agricultural initiatives. (Photos by AF Master Sgt. Demetrius Lester)

Gul Andama (Center), Dir. of Women’s Affairs for Paktika prov., speaks through an interpreter to Trevor Boyd (right), senior Dept of State rep for Paktika PRT, thanking him for more than 1,000 lbs of women’s and children’s clothing, toys, and bolts of cloth, at the compound in Sharana. Female reps of the PRT also discussed the current conditions of women, including education in a very traditional Pashtunwali prov. Following the delivery of supplies, Gul Andama signed a contract codifying a recently-approved contract providing vocational training to 30 Afghan women in Paktika prov.

LAGHMAN PROVINCE – Hundreds of women listen to the speakers.

NURISTAN PROVINCE – Liza Nooristani, an engr from the Do Ab District, speaks to a reporter. (Photo by AF 2nd Lt Natassia Cherne)

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Afghan radio station interviews local mayor

LAGHMAN PROVINCE – The mayor of the village of Mehtar Lam went on live radio for the first time during the coalition sponsored weekly “Radio Pamier” show, Mar. 1. “Radio Pamier” is a weekly show that spotlights Afghan government officials, in an effort to connect the people with the govt.

NOW ZAD - Def. Sec'y Robert Gates' visits with Marines and Soldiers at FOB Frontenac in Kandahar prov., March 9. "I feel reinforced that the path we're on is the right path, but it will take a long time," Gates told reporters after walking through Now Zad, a city that was a ghost town for 4 years. People are moving back to the city, and that's indicative of what's happening in other areas, thanks to a fundamental change in counterinsurgency strategy in the country, Gates said.

The secretary noted that Gen. Stanley McChrystal's strategy looks to protect the population. "For him, the metric of success is not the number of Taliban killed, but the number of Afghans protected, because only when they feel more secure, are they more willing to cooperate with the Afghan govt, with us and with the other allies," Gates said. "I think we're beginning to see the benefits of that."

The secretary met with young soldiers and Marines serving in Kandahar and Helmand provs, and he said they understand the new strategy. "They'd like to be able to fire more warning shots, but they understand for every innocent person they hurt, they likely recruit a number of Taliban," Gates said. "They got it, and they understood why Gen. McChrystal has taken the approach he has."

During his walk, the secretary stopped and spoke with Afghan storekeepers and families. The walk would have been unthinkable 6 months ago, when the Taliban controlled what was once the 2nd largest city in the prov. When the Marines first went into the city, they faced tough opposition, and found mines and IEDs everywhere. Now, more than 50 shops are operating in the city, and people are returning.

Now Zad is not a poster city. The shops are mud-walled, 1-story huts facing the street. Garage doors, not windows, secure the premises. People hang out in front of the stores for lack of any worthwhile employment. The "clear, hold, build" strategy will require time here, Gates acknowledged.

"You have to begin with the fact that it's a poor country to start with, and has been through 30 years of war," Gates said. "You have to have some context here: Build to what? It seems to me that somebody having a roof over their head, being able to work their farm and send their children to school - for a lot of Afghans today, that sounds like a pretty good life."

Gates spoke about upcoming ops in Kandahar prov, and said CF want to do the same kind of advance shaping ops they did in Marjah, for the op now under way in central Helmand. The idea in Kandahar, Afghanistan's 2nd largest city, and the political home of the Taliban - is to get tribal elders involved in governance, the secretary said.

"Kandahar is a different problem altogether, with more people, more infrastructure," the secretary said. It'll be an altogether more complex op, he added, which will include operating against criminal gangs that have used uncertainty in the city to prey on the people.

Earlier in the day, Gates had lunch with junior enlisted soldiers of the 1st Bn, 17th Inf, in Kandahar prov. They gave him frank feedback on equipment and operating with the Afghans, and the secretary said he'll go back to Washington with their recommendations.

One medic told the secretary that radio packs that leaders carry are causing back troubles and interfere with flak vest protection. "So we're going to go back and look at that, and there were several things like that," he said. "I always learn things when I come out here."

Gates said the young servicemembers he met today are inspirational. "They're resilient, they know what they've lost, and yet they seem very committed, and very much with their heads in the game," he said. "They know what they're here to do, and they're clearly prepared to do whatever it takes personally to make it happen. I was very impressed."

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DoD Imagery

(DoD photo by Sgt. Russell Gilchrest)

An Army soldier from the 118th MP Co teaches a class on room clearing to a group of ANP officers at Pole-Elam District Center in Logar prov., March 4, 2010.

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DoD Imagery

(DoD photo by Tech. Sgt. Francisco Govea II, AF)

Army 1st Lt. David Leydet, with 3rd Plt, Bear Troop, 8th Sqdrn, 1st Cav Regt, greets an elder during a population engagement in Taktehpol, March 2, 2010.

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DoD Imagery

(DoD photo by Cherie Cullen)

Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and Defense Minister of Afghanistan, Abdul Wardak are escorted by Comm. Gen., Combined Training Advisory Group, Brig. Gen. Simon Levey during a visit to the Combined Fielding Center at Camp Blackhorse, March 10, 2010.

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Iraqi Stories:

DVIDS

Small Gift Creates Hope for a Better Future

(Photos by Pvt. Zach Zuber)

DIYALA - Soldiers of A Co, 5/20 Inf., talk to friends and city council members in the courtyard of a girl they are donating a wheelchair to. While on a patrol they saw her dragging herself around, and decided to do whatever they could to help her.

Hamit Sieyd smiles while discussing with A Co the effect a wheelchair they provided for his daughter will have.

Hamit Sieyd looks over a wheelchair given to him for his daughter.

Unable to hide his smile, Hamit Sieyd moves the wheelchair into his house.

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Water Patrol Around Basra

(Photos by Staff Sgt. Adelita Mead)

BASRA - Army Sgt. Chris Harvey, assigned to 1-377 FAR, poses with 2 Iraqi soldiers, before they roll out on a convoy from the Basra Ops Center, March 4. The ISF voted today in special elections held across Iraq.

COB Q-WEST - IA soldiers who just voted in Ninawa prov., during the special elections, talk with Soldiers of C Co, 1st Sqdrn, 278th ARC of the Tenn. Army NG HQ in Henderson, Tenn. The IA provides a protection force for a pump house on the Tigris River in Ninawa prov., and the 1/278th ACR, who has just recently occupied Q West, will be conducting patrols to that area on a regular basis, even after the completion of the election.

An IA soldier displays his voting finger proudly to Soldiers of C Co.

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

An appreciation Lunch-in

(Army photos By Sgt. Jeremy Campbell)

GARY-OWENS - The IP and IA public affairs officers provided a lunch-in for the 1st BCT, 4th Bn PAO staff, March 6. Lt. Col. Majid Musa, the IP public affairs officer's wife cooked the meal for the lunch-in.

Sa'ad Harbirah gives a certificate of appreciation to Lt. Col. Stephens for all the help he and the 1st BCT give him during their deployment.

Sa'ad Harbirah thanks members of the 1st BCT with words of gratitude to the group for what they have accomplished during their deployment.

A chance to determine their own future in Marjah. ANA Soldiers brave dangers to help locals. Preparations continue for new ABP unit. Local Afghan tip leads to large weapons cache.

Iraq: Service members pursue education at Sather Air Base. Successful elections in Basrah. Proud Iraqi women vote in Nasiriyah. Iraqi's advancing at the "Speed of Light."

Joanna

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Afghanistan Stories:

DVIDS

A Chance to Determine Their Own Future

(Photos by 1st Lt. Joe Reney)

MARJAH - Afghanistan VP Karim Khalili, Army Gen. Stanley McChrystal, comm. gen., ISAF, and Gov. Gulab Mangal, Helmand provincial gov., walk down the district center of Marjah, March 1. The Marjah district center was recently cleared by ANSF and U.S. Marines.

Karl Eikenberry, U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan, and Gov. Mangal, talk to local residents in the district center of Marjah, Feb. 28.

Brig. Gen. Larry Nicholson, comm. gen., MEB-A, and ANA Gen. Majaidin, toss candy to local Afghan children on the other side of a canal as they walk down the district center of Marjah, Mar. 1.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

ANA soldiers take initiative, brave dangers to help locals

By Army Sgt. Andrew Reagan

ANA Capt. Mohammad, a civil affairs officer, speaks with local residents at Jani Kheyl, Paktya prov., during a civil assistance mission, Mar. 1. Mohammad commanded the group of Soldiers with the 203rd’s Religious and Cultural Advisory (RCA) unit, who planned and carried out the mission, which delivered cold-weather clothing, blankets, radios, cooking stoves and school supplies to the villagers.

PAKTYA PROVINCE – The RCA Soldiers performed similar missions in the last 3 months, to deliver supplies to local citizens in Gardez, Paktya prov., a city right outside FOB Thunder. Almost everything was different on this mission. The distance they travelled was longer, and the route much more perilous. They unloaded the humanitarian supplies with little fanfare shortly after dawn, while the grateful villagers who would normally greet them, slept. However, much like the others, this op displayed the RCA soldiers’ desire to take more initiative and responsibility in their mission, to provide a brighter future for the Afghan people.

“We’ve been working with the ANA on a daily basis preparing them tactically to be able to distribute humanitarian aid,” said Staff Sgt. Jeremy Hancock, with the 405th CAB, a mentor to the RCA. “In the run up to this mission, we’ve gone out on 6 previous missions in the Gardez area, where the ANA operated completely on their own. Our job is to provide developmental feedback, and also provide a lot of the humanitarian aid supplies. They proved to us that they're capable of pulling their own security.”

Hancock’s view on the development of the RCA Soldiers was seconded by Maj. Christian Jenni, Co A cmdr with the 405th CAB., who's also a mentor to the RCA at FOB Thunder. Jenni praised the courage they displayed in navigating the treacherous mountain passes, on the way to Jani Kheyl. Steep cliffs and sheer mountain walls flank the road through the passes, and the threat of IEDs loomed large.

“This was a dangerous mission for them. They showed a lot of courage,” said Jenni. “I was worried about my safety in an up-armored vehicle, and they were at much more of a risk in their vehicles than we were. The ANA knew they were going into a dangerous area, and they were still willing to do it,” Jenni said.

The RCA soldiers’ bravery was not lost on the villagers they assisted. Shah Gul Haji, an elder in a nearby village who met with the soldiers to discuss the needs of the local residents, was overjoyed to see the ANA and the U.S. Army working together. Gul Haji added that no matter what the ANA soldiers do to help the villagers, the villagers are appreciative, and will return the favor if the soldiers are ever in need.

Jenni also noted the fact that the ANA oldiers encouraged and inspired the villagers, particularly the young children, to strive for an education and a better life. He had the highest compliments for ANA Capt. Mohammad. “Capt. Mohammad showed a tremendous amount of initiative to get his message out,” said Jenni. “What better example do the Afghan children have, than an ANA officer who travels a great distance to come and see these children, and tell them to stay in school? He encouraged the children to get a good education, so they can contribute to their country and make it a better place; to become doctors so people in the area don’t have to travel 3 to 4 hours to get medical attention.”

ANA 1st. Lt. Herad, an EO with the ANA’s 203rd Thunder Corps, speaks with local residents.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Preparations continue for new Afghan Border Police unit

By Army Staff Sgt. Gary Witte

Army Lt. Col. Robert Brown (left), the cmdr of TF Destroyer, Army Col. Randy George (center), cmdr of TF Mountain Warrior and ANA Col. Avzal (right), cmdr of 2nd Bde, sit together at a meeting at FOB Bostick in Kunar prov., March 3. The group gathered to speak about the planned establishment of another ABP unit, in Nuristan prov.

KUNAR PROVINCE – The ANSF and U.S. servicemembers discussed various security concerns in the area. TF Destroyer, headed by 3rd Sqdrn, 61st Cav Regt, is in the midst of activating the new ABP unit, the 7th Kandak.

“It’s going to be a step forward,” said Army Lt. Col. Robert Brown, TF Destroyer cmdr. Brown also said the TF is working with the Afghan govt to obtain approval of the needed equipment for the new unit, and working to fill the ranks of the unit from graduating police classes. Most of the current unit personnel came from an existing kandak (Bn).

ANSF and ISAF have been meeting since Sept. to activate the 7th Kandak. Army Col. Randy George, TF Mountain Warrior cmdr, who came from Jalalabad for the March 3 meeting, said such gatherings are important for progress. “It’s the Afghan forces who are most crucial to provide security,” George said.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Local Afghan tip leads to large cache find

By TF Rakkason Public Affairs

A weapons cache that included almost 250 mortar rounds of various types and sizes, more than 70 recoilless rifle rounds, approx 90 cases of anti- aircraft rounds, 1,000 7.62mm bullets, and an assortment of explosives and bomb-making materials was found in the village of Jabber Khel, Paktika prov., March 7. Soldiers with Co A, 3rd Bn, 187th Inf Regt, 3rd BCT, 101st Abn Div., and Paktika Police unearthed the cache, and an ANA EOD detachment later destroyed it.

FOB SALERNO – Acting on a tip, Soldiers unearthed weapons and explosives with a black market value of more than $100,000. The cache was found in a house, hidden behind false walls and hidden under false floors.

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Iraqi Stories:

DVIDS

U.S. Service Members Pursue Education in Iraq

By Sgt. Samantha Beuterbaugh

Staff Sgt. Keyona Davis studies in her office after duty hours. At the end of Davis' busy days as plt sgt for HHC, Div STB, 1st AR Div, she packs what little bit of free time she has with schoolwork.

BAGHDAD – "If I can make time then anyone can make time." Staff Sgt. Keyona Davis chuckled at what she had just said. Here she sat, in a hostile zone, not a lot of free time, reflecting on how people think it's essential to make time for things that will improve morale and occupy the mind.Davis is tasked with numerous duties, but she also maintains physical fitness standards, sings in the choir, and studies for classes.

"I'm a candidate for pretty much any job that comes out," said Davis, who is currently on her third deployment in only 6 years of active duty. One of her previous deployments required her to work 18-hour shifts every day for 6 months, so school wasn't an option. "Now, I'm only pulling a 12-hour shift, so that's 6 extra hours I have to myself," said Davis.

Although time-management can a challenge, an education is something Davis feels she needs. Davis is one of 16 grandchildren in her family to achieve a high school diploma. "I'm 1 out of 4 who graduated high school," said Davis, "and I want to be the first one in my family to get a college degree."

"For me, the face-to-face classes are better than online classes," Davis said. She likes interacting on a personal level with the instructor, and being around other motivated people motivates her, she said. The classes are also usually in the evening, which is very accommodating for her. However, what might work for some, might not work for others.

AF Tech Sgt. Willmont Griffin achieved 2 degrees online, he said, because fitting class attendance into his schedule was a bit of an obstacle. Griffin who is a liquid fuel systems maintenance tech, assigned to 447th Expeditionary Civil Engrs Sqdrn, didn't start college until his 50s.

Griffin has progressed by completing both an associate's and a bachelor's degree. He's currently seeking another degree that he expects to complete in May. His current classes are face-to-face because they seem to work best with his deployment schedule, he said. Griffin could be considered proof that age is no barrier to seeking an education. Still, he admits to harboring a few regrets about waiting so long to pursue college. However, the regrets don't stay long. "The important thing is that I'm doing it now."

A busy construction inspector in Manhattan, Griffin said his reason for going back to school is a matter of personal pride. "I just wanted to see if I could do it." The online environment was the only way that he could get an education and maintain a career. Griffin said online courses are difficult, but he finds the benefits of getting an education worth it.

He's currently enrolled in face-to-face courses, and like Davis, has found the one-on-one interaction beneficial. Davis and Griffin admittedly don't have much leisure time because of their busy work schedules, but they say pursuing an education worth the sacrifice. "You can always make time for something that matters," Davis said, "and education matters!"

AF Tech. Sgt. Willmont Griffin debates with a classmate in his speech class, March 9, at Sather Air Base.

AF Tech. Sgt. Willmont Griffin raises his hand to respond to a discussion in his debate class.

Staff Sgt. Keyona Davis distributes administrative documents to one of her Soldiers in the Iron Oasis Dining Facility, March 8.

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Iraqi Elections in Basra

Photos by Spc. Samantha Ciaramitaro

Army 1st Lt. Jeffery Nickerson from 1-377 FAR, 17th Fires Bde, 1st ID stops during a joint patrol with Iraq soldiers, to joke around with the local children in Basra, March 5, 2010. The joint patrol was conducted to assess the local populations thought on the national Iraq elections.

Iraqi soldier proudly displays his right index finger, a symbol of his participation in the March 4 special elections in Basra, March 5, 2010. The special elections where held for Iraq's SECFOR, and some medical workers, so the people in those fields can secure the country on elections day.

An Iraqi soldier displays his purple inked index finger, showing that he had the freedom to vote.

Army Staff Sgt. Randy Matz attached to 1-377 FAR, hands a box of school supplies to a parent, during a joint patrol.

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DVIDS

Proud Iraqi Women Vote in Nasiriyah

NASIRIYAH - Female voters display their purple finger tips after casting ballots at an elementary school in Nasiriyah, March 7. By law, women must fill 25% -- 82 out of the 325 -- parliamentary seats. The heavy purple dye reduces attempts of double-voting fraud. No election day violence occurred in Nasiriyah, Iraq's 4th largest city bisected by the Euphrates River in the southern prov. of Dhi Qar. Iraqi SECFOR were responsible for all security.

Female voters show pride in voting.

Female voter in a wheelchair, determined to have her vote count.

Female voter proud to show purple finger.

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U.S. AF Central, Baghdad Media Outreach Team

Iraqi's Advancing at the Speed of Light

(Photos by Master Sgt. Patricia Bunting)

CAMP TAJI - AF Staff Sgt. Gary Graf, 821st Expeditionary Training Sqdrn cable and antenna maintenance instructor, sits next to a cable teaching aide he created for his class at Camp Taji, Feb. 13. During this 42-day course the Iraqi military students learn about theories, splicing cable and the overall capabilities that fiber optics can bring in advancements.

Staff Sgt. Graf demonstrates to some of his students how to carefully cut open a cable and separate the different wires.

Staff Sgt. Graf gathers his students around a table to closely teach them some of the aspects of fiber optics.

An Afghan girls gets assistance in moving her calf to the treatment area, during an animal care event at Kandaru village, March 6. A total of 427 goats, cows, and donkeys received inoculations, de-worming, and treatment for skin diseases and parasitic infections.

KONAR PROVINCE – The Veterinary Civil Assistance Program (VCAP) is administered by local Afghan govt officials and Coalition Agricultural Development Teams. Local Afghan veterinary specialists and laborers were hired and did most of the work. Animals from 12 villages were brought to the event, which cost only $1,500 for labor and supplies.

Ambassador Mark Sedwill, who served as British ambassador to Afghanistan, said the op is different from others in 3 basic ways. The first, he said, is that from its inception, NATO's regional cmdr, British Maj. Gen. Nick Carter, and his Afghan counterparts planned the op "from the end-game backwards, and the end-game is the civilian delivery of governance and development," Sedwill said.

The 2nd difference, Sedwill said, is the integration of Afghan and CF. The op was authorized and led by Afghan President Hamid Karzai and his team. The people of Helmand wanted the op to proceed; far more Afghan troops are on the ground, and the Afghan govt has led the effort totally, he noted.

The 3rd difference is the integration between the provincial and national govts, Sedwill said. National ministries have been intimately involved with the planning and allocation of resources to the effort, Sedwill said. Karzai traveled to Helmand and held a meeting with the elders of the prov., March 7.

As the effort in Helmond transitions into the "hold and build" portion of the strategy, some quick projects already have begun. Bazaars, schools and clinics are reopening, and money is flowing to clear irrigation ditches. "All this is just to get normal life moving again," Sedwill explained.

The govt also is totally revamping the police in the prov. "One of the reasons the Taliban were able to control this area was the police had, in effect, been captured by some local warlords who were using them against the population," Sedwill said. "The people told Karzai that they would not accept the old police force, and in fact said they would fight again should that be the case. "It's absolutely critical that policing, in particular, delivers what the people of the area require: honest and decent policemen," he added.

The answer was to bring the Civil Order Police into the region, and they will stay there for months, the ambassador said, while new local police are recruited and trained. Since many of the same problems exist elsewhere in the country, Sedwill noted, the experiences in Marjah and Helmand are transferrable. "Dealing with those political issues ... is going to be a big part of how we're going to shape the campaign as we bring it forward," he said.

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American Forces Press Service

McChrystal Details Lessons of Marjah Offensive

By Jim Garamone

KABUL - The Taliban flag no longer flies over Marjah, and the ops in the central region of Helmand prov. have lessons for the rest of Afghanistan, said the cmdr of U.S. and NATO forces in the country, March 8.

The Marjah op is a tactical and operational effort to liberate 75,000 Afghans from Taliban tyranny, said Army Gen. Stanley McChrystal. "There was also extensive narco-trafficking and production in the area." The military part of the op in the region is not over, but the high-profile part of security ops is, the general said. Following the strategy of "clear, hold, build and transfer," the clear portion of the op will continue for months, he said.

Establishing effective govt control in the region is key to success as the op continues, he said. The governmental part of the op concentrates on the people, and allows the national govt to show its leadership in a critical area. It also telegraphs where the military and govt will move next.

"Many people talk about Kandahar," McChrystal said. "We're absolutely going to secure Kandahar. We're already doing a lot of ops in Kandahar, but it's our intent under President Karzai's direction, to make an even greater effort there."

Ops in Kandahar will be different from those in Marjah, McChrystal said. Some 30,000 coalition troops already are in and around the city, he said, but more are needed. The general said Kandahar ops will be more like a rising tide than a D-Day invasion, and that he anticipates it will reach its zenith in the summer.

"Kandahar hasn't been under Taliban control. It's been under a menacing Taliban presence, particularly in the districts around it," McChrystal said. "We've put additional forces in the districts, and we'll reinforce that over time." The general added that he anticipates a lot of "political shaping" of Kandahar in advance of any offensive.

The op in Marjah has a strategic importance as well, McChrystal told reporters. "As it becomes a steppingstone to further ops, it's also a demonstration to the Afghan people, the int'l community, the Pakistanis, and importantly, to the Taliban as well, that things have changed."

Narcotics bankrolled the Taliban in Helmand. "Security is the way we attack the problem long-term," McChrystal said. "In my view, you can never reduce the narcotics problem until you get governance and rule of law there." As the region becomes more secure, McChrystal said, officials are finding that drug lords are moving their ops elsewhere in the country. "As we expand security," he added, "it makes it more difficult to find places to relocate."

The ops in Helmand have proven the strategy works, McChrystal said. ISAF and its Afghan allies aren't trying to bring the insurgents into a toe-to-toe battle. "We were trying to take Marjah with no fight, or as little fight as possible," he explained. "We want the Afghan people to see the approach of security does not necessarily mean there'll be a set-piece battle in their neighborhood." The coalition wants the insurgents out of the area, so the people can make the decision to reintegrate without pressure from the Taliban, he said.

Cultural aspects in the country really define the strategy, the general noted. "What I think we've learned ... is if you try to push against the culture, you have huge problems," he said. "So when we have military ops here, I don't think of pushing them somewhere. I think of pulling somewhere. "In Marjah, we were pulled in. We launched the final op as a result of a signed resolution by the community council, asking us to do the op. They pulled us in," McChrystal explained.

COB KALSU - Acting on info provided to them by a local citizen, the IP disarmed and removed an IED emplaced near COB Kalsu, March 4. The citizen received a 350,000 dinar reward from U.S. Forces for his actions.

The Soldiers in charge of the COB's security are grateful for the man's help. "By coming to the gate and letting us know there was a problem, he probably prevented someone from getting injured," said Sgt. 1st Class Michael Slaughter, BSTB, 3rd HBCT, 3rd ID. "His quick thinking and willingness to come forward with helpful info helped make everyone safer. I'm glad we could reward him."

The citizen stated he had no idea what he would do with the money. "I will save it," he said. "It's more important that no one was hurt."

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USF-I

March 9

U.S. servicemembers deliver smiles to Iraqi school children

BAGHDAD - Servicemembers assigned to USF-I, Dep. Comm. Gen., Advising and Training, visited the Al Mustafa school for underprivileged children recently. The troops met the children and teachers with more than 300 packages filled with school supplies, toys, coloring books, crayons and sweet treats. The servicemembers were greeted with singing, clapping, chanting and hundreds of smiles as they approached the school yard.

Brig. Gen. Craig Olson, Iraq Security Assistance Mission (ISAM) dir., said to the children and faculty of Al Mustafa. "Since the future of a free Iraq is held in its children, it was my strong desire to participate personally in a mission like this."

Olson called on AF Lt. Col. Robert Carriedo, ISAM AF, to help coordinate another visit. They were joined by Senior Master Sgt. Luann Gaylor, assigned to ISAM Logistics, who spearheaded the necessary coordination. Gaylor and many others collected donations of clothing, school supplies, toys and more than $800 in donations to buy other needed items for the children and the school.

After accumulating enough items to make a generous package for each child, several volunteers assigned to various divisions within ISAM, organized and packaged the gifts.

"I know I speak for all the participants when I say it was one of the greatest blessings of my deployment," Olson said. "I intend for there to be many more such visits in the future." The team members have already begun collecting items for the next mission.

Both operations were conducted in accordance with the Security Agreement and in coordination with the Iraqi government.

In Bayji, located approx 101 km SW of Kirkuk, IP and U.S. advisors searched 3 residential buildings for a suspected AQI leader for central Diyala Prov., who is believed to recruit and train new AQI fighters, stage attacks in the region and facilitate the illegal transport of weapons into Iraq from other countries. As the security team approached the 1st building, 2 suspects ran out of the building and were later apprehended without incident. After conducting preliminary questioning and examining the evidence collected during the op, IP identified and arrested the warranted AQI leader and 2 suspected criminal associates.

During a second security op, taking place in a rural area located approx 76 km SW of Kirkuk, IP and U.S. advisors searched a building for a suspected leader of AQI for the Kirkuk region, who is believed to be responsible for ordering assassinations of govt employees, in order to disrupt the March 7 elections. Info and evidence gathered at the scene led IP to identify and arrest the warranted AQI leader.

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USF-I

March 8, 2010

New Iraqi Army post opens in southern Iraq

BASRAH - A new Iraqi post officially opened with a ribbon cutting ceremony, March 1. The Shaibah Location Command will logistically support the 14th IA Div's vital mission of protecting southern Iraq.

"We thank the U.S. Armed Forces for making this project possible," said Brig. Gen. Shabeeb, cmdr of Shaiba Location Command. "This project is critical for the support of the 14th IA Div and the security of southern Iraq."

The new location command holds 82 buildings and facilities that include a fuel storage and distribution system, an ice factory, bakery, firehouse, 2 water treatment plants, a dining facility, offices and living quarters.

Iraq: Soldiers, Sailors brief IA leaders on election preps. Security paved way for successful elections. Election day monitored from the sky. Courage of the human spirit - showing off the purple finger as 62% of Iraqis brave the threats and attacks, to cast their precious vote.

Joanna

________________________

Afghanistan Stories:

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

International Security Assistance Force visits checkpoint

By Army Staff Sgt. Gary Witte

KUNAR PROVINCE - Army 1st Lt. Rahul Harpalani, plt leader for 2nd Plt, Troop B, 3rd Sqdrn, 61st Cav Regt, TF Destroyer, jokes with a youth at an ANP Traffic Control Point in the Naray district of Kunar prov., March 4. The unit visited the ANP checkpoint in order to register residents and prevent mistaken identifications.

Spc. Ryan Watts, a medic with 2nd Plt, takes a photo of an Afghan resident.

Sgt. Mario Torres, a team leader, pulls security at Sherigal Bridge.

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Georgia NG’s long road, nearly behind them

By Army Sgt. Troy Johnson

Soldiers of the Georgia NG, 148th BSB, Echo Co, distribution plt, reach Tera pass during a convoy in Logar prov., March 1. The route began with intricate twists and turns up and down a mountain, where they reached the pass at a peak of more than 9,000 feet. This mission took the guardsmen from the city of Gardez in Paktia prov., to Bagram Airfield. The plt’s overall mission is to train the ANA’s 203rd Thunder Corps to successfully conduct convoy ops.

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – With less than a month left of their deployment, Soldiers of the Georgia NG’s Distribution Plt, Co E, celebrate another completed convoy. “We’ve run more convoy op missions than anyone else in the 48th, and have been attacked a couple of times,” said Army 1st Lt. Jerry Gardner, the plt leader.

The convoys can often be long, with undeveloped roads, dangerous routes and unpredictable missions. “We once had a 7-day mission that turned into a 24-day mission,” said Sgt. Greg Wallace, the medic for the plt.

“We've averaged at least 2 missions a week,” said Sgt. 1st Class Brian Mauro, plt sgt. “We carry anything and everything.” Since May, the plt has run more than 100 combat missions, covering almost 3,000 miles and 8 provs.

The different areas of op have given the plt a unique opportunity to see more of the Afghan countryside than most units, he added. At the start of their combined-action, the ANA had little experience, and were ill-prepared for the movements. “The first fire-fight we got into, they didn’t even shoot back,” said Spc. Dustin Carnes, a gunner for the Distribution Plt.

This platoon taught them how to clean their weapons and maintain them on a regular basis, added Carnes. “We used to wait on them for hours before leaving the wire. Now when we show up, they have their trucks fueled and ammo belted; they're ready to go, and so are we.”

Sgt. Alan Danzig, a forward observer, serves as the tactical cmdr of a MRAP vehicle, during a convoy through Logar prov., March 1.

Spc. Joshua Yancey (top), a small arms repairman, and Sgt. Johnny Woodruff (bottom), a vehicle operator, check their gear before leaving on a convoy.

The deejay for radio Kherwar, Karwan “Pete” Takar, gets his equipment ready so he can read a poem he wrote on the air, Feb. 15. “I think this has been a winner of peace here,” said Army 1st Lt. Timothy Miller, officer-in-charge of radio programming. “Everything we do is backed up with messages on the radio; it’s a pretty big key to developing this area.”

LOGAR PROVINCE – Every day, the Soldiers of C Troop, 1st Sqdrn, 91st Cav Regt, 173rd Abn BCT, and their Afghan counterparts patrol the villages surrounding COP Kherwar. While they talk to villagers and provide security to the area, they've another tool working for them back at COP Kherwar.

The district of Kherwar is mountainous and devoid of cell phone towers, making communications between villages difficult. However, C Troop with the help of an Afghan DJ, bring news, music and dramas to the people who would otherwise be without news.

“Everybody in Kherwar listens to the radio,” said 1st Lt. Timothy Miller. “Their primary news comes from the radio station. Every day we have messages, music and citations from the holy Koran,” said Miller. “The radio station started in Nov., and we got here in early Dec.,” said Miller. “It’s something our sqdrn is pushing to really get the message out there.”

In order to help ensure the message gets out, C Troop Soldiers have given away many hand-cranked radios. The radios do not require batteries so they are perfect for the area, which during the winter is often covered in several feet of snow. In addition to the normal programming, the deejay also takes requests from villagers.

“We have an average of just over 300 requests a week and some people from as far as 7km away will walk to the district center and drop off a request,” said Miller. Recently, they’ve added an event they call “big Friday.” Every Friday, the deejay will pull one name from the requests of the week and they win a prize, usually a blanket and radio. “Big Friday” premiered in Jan., and has become a hit.

“Our main goal is to bring in Afghan leaders because it’s their district; it’s their country,” said Miller. “It’s also a very good way to legitimize the Afghan leadership, because the people can become more familiar with the ANA, the police chief and the sub-district gov. They usually each come in once a week,” he said. “If there’s a big event, they usually come in right after the event.”

Having a radio station in the Kherwar district, having long been a haven for the Taliban, is also affective in the fight against insurgent forces. “The Taliban have a cultural advantage; they live among the people,” Miller explained. “When our messages are coming over the radio, they don’t have a radio they can use to counter back those messages.”

The investment in more material is a small matter compared to the benefits of the station. “I think this has been a winner of peace here,” he said. “The people feel like they’re involved with the leadership, and what the leadership has to say. Everything we do is backed up with messages on the radio. It’s a pretty big key to developing this area.”

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CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Ghazni provincial council holds inauguration

By AF Master Sgt. Sarah Webb

A member of the Ghazni Provincial Council addresses the group during the council’s inauguration in Ghazni City, Feb. 23. The council officially reopened its doors after 13 months for the inauguration of its new members and elected officials.

GHAZNI PROVINCE – Members of TF White Eagle and Ghazni PRT attended the long-awaited inauguration ceremony. The council represents the only governmental body directly elected by the people, with each member chosen by the districts they represent.

“Peace members, you are responsible to solve the problems of the people,” said Haji Allahyar, dep. gov. of Ghazni. “The people trust you. You're the ones who can bring prosperity to your districts. Do not break the people’s hearts. Do as you promised for your districts to help the people. They trust you to make wise decisions.”

Polish Army Brig. Gen. Bronowicz, Cmdr, TF White Eagle, also addressed the council. Speaking in Dari, he expressed his thanks for the honor of participating in the inaugurating session. “It's a very important day for Ghazni prov.,” said Bronowicz. “The provincial council has a very important job representing the people of the prov. I firmly believe that the council will assist the gov’s office in determining the development objectives for the prov. TheTF will do its best to support your efforts.”

“The reopening of the PC marks a significant advancement of our governance efforts in Ghazni,” said Mark Fleming, Dept of State rep for the PRT. “It's reversed the negative drift of the past year, in which many informal institutions have seen their authority weaken. The closure of the PC last year was another symbol of the dysfunctional govt institutions in Ghazni. The reestablishment of the provincial council sends a powerful public message.”

Ghazni provincial leaders, council members, and Brig. Gen. Bronowicz, cuts a ribbon signifying the official inauguration.

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American Forces Press Service

Forces Discover Drug Caches in Afghanistan

Compiled from ISAF Joint Command news releases

NIMROZ PROVINCE - March 3, a combined patrol discovered 60 lbs of poppy, 892 lbs of white soda ash used in the production of heroin, 300 lbs of ammonium chloride, 3 lbs of ammonium nitrate, and various drug- processing equipment, including precision scales and grinders.

In a separate find March 2, a patrol discovered a cache containing 88 lbs of opium gum, 88 lbs of morphine base, 88 lbs of precursor chemicals for opium processing, and various drug-processing equipment.

In another op, a patrol found a drug cache containing 4 lbs of amphetamines, a lb of opium, and 5 gallons of acid. "All of these finds were within 4 miles of each other, and point to the success of operating jointly and with the support of the local population," said Navy Capt. Jane Campbell, ISAF Joint Command spokeswoman.

-- An Afghan and int'l team captured a Taliban cmdr during a joint op in Helmand prov., March 3. He's known to have planned and coordinated attacks leading to the deaths of civilians and Afghan forces. Two other suspected insurgents were detained during the op.

-- Afghan soldiers on patrol with ISAF in Kabul prov., found a significant weapons cache, March 2. The combined force found 6 machine guns, 30 homemade bombs, and more than 1,000 explosive fuses.

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Iraqi Stories:

Blackanthem Military News

U.S. Soldiers, Sailors brief IA leaders on election preps

By Sgt. Neil McCabe

IA Staff Maj. Gen. Dalmy (center), the comm. gen. of the IA's Basra-based 14th Div, was briefed by the Soldiers and Sailors of the 17th Fires Bde-led TF Thunderbolt at their HQ at COB Basra, March 1. Dalmy was joined by Brig. Gen. Randal Dragon (right), the USD-South dep. comm. gen. for sustainment, and Col. Steven Bullimore (left), the cmdr of 17th FiB, which, with Navy and other Army elements, operates in Basra prov., as TF Thunderbolt.

COB BASRA - "This was a great briefing," said Staff Maj. Gen. Dalmy, whose division will take the lead in securing Basra Prov., during the elections, March 7. In addition to the briefers, reps attended from the UK's Basra consulate, the UN, the EU, the U.S. State Dept, and other military services.

The presentation was detailed and well thought-out, Dalmy said. At the small reception afterward, Dalmy told Bullimore that he was impressed by the professionalism of the bde's NCOs, who were among the presenters. "One day my own NCO's will be able to do the same thing," he said.

During the briefing, the presenters stood in front of a 20' by 30' full-color satellite photograph of roughly 75% of Basra Prov., an area where nearly 90% of its population lives. The image, which served as a high resolution "sand table," was assembled from four strips, and taped to the floor. There was a flyover-effect as buildings, streets and even boats plying the Shatt al-Arab waterway were clearly visible in the image.

After thanking the briefers and complimenting the work they presented, Bullimore said his main guidance to the men and women of his TF was to continue to refine their plans and to make sure they were in the right posture with their ISF partners. "Be ready, stand by, and stay out of the way," he said.

In his own remarks, Dalmy said his soldiers were ready, but he was relying on U.S. forces to act as additional eyes and ears on the ground. "The most important thing is to let us know as soon as possible, any emergency, and you'll see the IA respond strongly," he said. "Then, we'll call the Americans for assistance—for which we're very grateful."

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Blackanthem Military News

Security paved way for successful Iraqi elections

By United States Forces - Iraq PAO

IA soldiers direct civilians to a voting site in Mansour, March 7 during Iraq's historic national elections. Before passing through to the polling site, voters were searched thoroughly.

(Army photo by Pfc. Kimberly Hackbarth)

BAGHDAD - As Iraqi forces celebrate what their leaders are calling a resounding victory for a safe and free Iraq, U.S. Div-Center leaders are praising their Soldiers for their strategic role in assisting them. Despite an early morning attempt by terrorists to disrupt the elections, the Iraqi people resolved themselves to get out and vote.

American leaders watched as well trained and determined ISF stopped terrorists at every turn from scaring voters, away from polling sites - a force that they'd been involved in training and assisting; a force they were still involved with assisting.

"The security was tight," said Guy DiDomenico, a U.N. field security specialist, while touring a polling site in Mansour. He explained that around 8:30 a.m., polling was slow. However, many more voters arrived between 10 a.m. and noon.

Compared to the 2009 elections, where he was also present, DiDomenico said security improved greatly this year, and that the polling locations appeared much more organized, with more people working at them.

Watching from more than 300 meters away as their ISF counterparts handled the security at the polling sites, U.S. Soldiers said they were impressed by the process. "The ISF did a good job," said Cpl. Andrew Canvasser, an MP with MP Plt, HHC, 4th SBCT, 2nd ID. "The ISF used a show of force to keep order," he said, explaining that both IA and the IP were present at the polling sites. "They did a good job minimizing the threat as much as they could."

Meanwhile, back on FOB Constitution, location of the 6th IA Div Joint Ops Center (JOC), 4th Bde Soldiers and leaders carefully monitored the security situation alongside Iraqi partners. Together, the 2 military forces shared intel about the situation on the ground, coordinated the use of U.S. intel, recon and surveillance equipment, and received updates from the field.

"The JOC was instrumental in ensuring that Iraqi and U.S. forces were synchronized, updated on each others' activities, and allowed us to quickly and effectively maneuver ISR assets at the request of our partners," said Col. John Norris, the bde cmdr. "The JOC has proven to be a valuable tool and an asset that will continue to be used by our ISF partners, long after we have gone."

"I give a lot of credit to the Iraqi people for going out and voting even though there's real danger out there," DiDomenico said. "It's a sight to see people voting."

As the polls closed in the northern area of Baghdad, officials attributed the ISF for higher than anticipated voter turnout as the local population filled polling stations. "Overall, supporting the national elections has solidified for us the IA's ability to conduct security ops and track units on the ground," said 1st Lt. Drew Kitchen, an IA ops coordinator.

If Iraqis filled the polling stations in northern Baghdad, they swelled them in Iraq's Al Anbar prov., where advise-and-assist paratroopers with 1st Bde, 82nd Abn escorted 3 election-site monitoring teams with UN Assistance Mission for Iraq, to polling sites in Ramadi, the Ramadi-Fallujah corridor, and the Hit/Haditha area.

According to the Anbar Ops Command, the ISF had discovered 20 IEDs and removed them in a 30-hour span prior to Election Day. Eight more detonated on Election Day with only 1 minor injury.

U.S. Forces standing by for assistance were never called upon by ISF. However, Capt. Richard Jones, cmdr of Co B, 2nd Bn, 504th PIR, said his company provided security and transportation for the Ramadi and Fallujah area UNAMI teams. His men did exactly what was needed. "They deserve praise," he said. "They worked hard today. They've been working hard this whole deployment, and we're proud of them."

1st Lt Michael McCrory, 3rd BSB A Co., briefs his quick response force team outside their MRAPs on COB Falcon, March 7. As part of a quick response force team, they were prepared to aid the Iraqi Security Forces if asked to during the elections. They were never requested.

(Army photo by Spc. Jared Eastman)

Monitoring teams with UN Assistance Mission for Iraq, and reporters from the Christian Science Monitor and N.Y. Times arrive at Camp Ramadi.

(Army photo by Spc. Michael MacLeod)

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Blackanthem Military News

Election Day

By Spc. Robert Sheets

IP monitor live video of polling sites on a One System Remote Video Terminal (OSRVT) from a U.S. Navy P-3 Orion flying over Dhi Qar prov., March 7. The aerial imagery provides improved situational awareness for the IP leaders. The IP are partnered with U.S. advisors from 1st Bn, 77th Armor Regt embedded in their Provincial Joint Coordination Center in Nasiriyah. The bn is deployed with 4th Bde, 1st Armored Div., from Fort Bliss, Texas.

COB ENDEAVOR - An Iraqi man proudly displays his ink-stained finger after voting in Najaf, March 7, 2010. The 2010 elections are the 2nd national elections since the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime.

An Iraqi man cleans excess ink from his finger after voting.

An Iraqi woman leaves a Najaf polling station after casting her vote.

An Iraqi girl waits outside of a Najaf polling station, as local residents enter to cast their vote.

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Blackanthem Military News

Iraqi Policeman help senior citizen to polling site

NASIRIYAH - An IP accompanies an elderly woman to a polling site in Nasiriyah, March 7. No election day violence occurred in Nasiriyah, Iraq's 4th largest city, bisected by the Euphrates River, in the southern prov. of Dhi Qar. ISF were responsible for all security.

Army Spc. Robert Dean (center), a wheeled mechanic with HSC, TF Workhorse, runs the 2-mile event of the Army’s physical fitness test along with Marine counterparts, during the Marine Corps Corporal’s Course at camp McCool, Feb. 10. Dean was one of 3 Soldiers who participated in the Marines course.

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – Army Specialists Robert Dean; Spc. Ritchie Lopez, an aviation ops specialist with HSC, TF Observe, Detect, Identify, Neutralize-Afghanistan; and Pfc. Lawrence Johnson, an intel analyst with Co D, TF ODIN-A, 3rd CAB, TF Falcon, took part in the 16-day course, which is the preliminary introduction to what it takes to be an NCO in the Marine Corps.

The course, comparable to the Army’s Warrior Leader Course for NCOs, taught in various areas such as warfighting, decision making, and critical thinking in a classroom and outdoor environment. This was a rare opportunity for the 3 Soldiers, who welcomed the challenge no matter the differences. “The Marines have a different mentality,” said Dean. “We seem to put our military occupational specialties first, but the Marines train to be riflemen first.”

“We're going to push them hard,” said Marine Sgt. Christopher Ostrander, the lead instructor for the Marine Corps Corporal’s Course at Bagram. “We're going to push them so that their subordinates never can. It’s going to be tough. We're not here to break anybody, but we're here to make better leaders.”

Ostrander has served for 7 years in the Marines and was instructing the 2nd cycle of the course. He said that to be disciplined, fair and have passion, motivates him and the students. This same mentality also helps level everyone in the classroom, to be on the same playing field.

Despite the different uniform worn, the Soldiers were not treated any differently than the Marines. “They'll all be one team,” said Ostrander. “If one of them fails, they all fail together. “ The Soldiers were especially motivated during the run portion of the physical fitness test, as they lead the pack. “We drove alongside the group as they ran, yelling out the window ‘HOOAH! Rangers lead the way,’” said Ostrander in praise of the Soldiers.

However, the Soldiers were in for a surprise during the combat conditioning portion of the class, nicknamed ‘Hell on Earth’. During ’Hell on Earth,’ the students ran through a gauntlet of mud, sweat, and big tires, as they suffered a haze of circuit drills, Marine Corps style.

“The combat conditioning was by far the hardest part of the course,” said Lopez. “It was ‘boots and uts’ (short for utilities, or Army Combat Uniforms) every other day. We’d run a mile out on the field, perform extensive physical exercises for 1-1/2 to 2 hours, and just when you thought we were done - we’d go again, then have to run a mile back”.

Marine Sgt. Bobby Malicoat, an instructor of the Marine Corps Corporal’s Course, ran the circuit side-by-side with his Marines and Soldiers. “I was excited when I found out we had Soldiers coming through,” said Mailcoat. “They didn’t quit, and the Marines were trying harder, because they didn’t want to look bad.”

But amidst the taunts of “you ain’t gonna get faster by runnin’ slower” and “don’t you break my sand bags!” the class of 3 Soldiers and 13 Marines literally carried each other through 2 hours of pain and exhaustion. When the ’Hell on Earth‘ ended, the students showed their pride and motivation by rocking the north end of Bagram with their thundering cadence.

Both Lopez and Johnson agreed that the most valuable lesson learned from this experience was to lead by example. “I’ve gained a lot of tools and a new way of thinking,” said Dean. “It made me realize it’s time to step up, because now I have a foundation to build my own leadership style.”

Johnson said he intends to incorporate the lessons learned at the course, at work and on the PT field. Sergeant Malicoat is the greatest NCO I’ve ever met,” said Johnson. “He was with us every step of the way, sometimes doing what we did times 4. I want to be seen as that type of leader.”

Another take away from the course was the added camaraderie. “You can see all the pictures and hear all the stories I have to tell, but until you go through all that we did with those Marines, you’ll never know what it feels like,” said Lopez.

“We were all proud of each other and all we accomplished together,” said Johnson. “It humbled me a little bit. The course opened my eyes on how Marines interact.”

Servicemembers, from Focused Targeting Force, 101st Abn Div, FOB Salerno, perform an air assault on an objective, from the bowels of a CH-47 Chinook helicopter, Feb. 24. Chinook helicopters are one of the primary air platforms for moving troops and supplies throughout Afghanistan.

"The CH-47 is the primary means of transport here in the Afghanistan area of ops", said Army Chief Warrant Officer Lance Brennan, CH-47 pilot, B Co, 1st Bn, 169th Aviation Regt. "We support the ISAF mission in Afghanistan by moving ground units directly into the fight."

"Part of my flying duties are to help the troops on the ground by providing air security and overwatch during their missions", said Spc. Wayne Bertino, a UH-60 Blackhawk crew chief, A Co., 4-3 CAB.

Cpt. Raymond Spees, the civil military officer with the 173rd STB, HHC, addresses the Logar district sub-govs and TF Saber command group during a PRT Proposal Conference, Feb. 9.

LOGAR PROVINCE – “Projects are one of the few tools to influence the people and be able to unify Afghanistan. Therefore, we have all these development agencies here: USAID, CF, the Czech PRT, and the State Dept,” said Spees. “We’re all working together to use these tools to be able to build development and also build governance capacity.”

The conference was the 2nd of many to come between the sub-govs and TF Saber. “In this conference, we figure out the mistakes we're trying to solve, and it’s a big coordination between the govt depts,” said Logar dep. gov. Shouja. It's very important for these projects to build rapport between the developmental agencies, said Shouja. “If we coordinate every time, then we'll not have problems anymore. It's important to make a close relationship,” said Shouja.

“The people of Baraki Barak are going to get the benefits of this conference, because these guys are here to discuss our projects, to improve every district in the Logar prov.,” said Mohammad Amin, the sub-district gov for Baraki Barak. “The result of this conference is going to be positive in this area. The message of these projects is basically that the govt is here to help the people,” he continued. “The people need to understand that.”

Not only are these reconstruction projects a means of empowerment, but also governmental lucidity, said Spees. “We’re able to create transparency; we’re getting the govt to actually communicate more with its people,” said Spees.

The dialogue initiated by these meetings will hopefully create grassroots movements of project development conceived by the people themselves, said Spees. “We want the people to come up with their own projects, their own ideas, and then we want them to bring those projects to the govt. They bring them to the district level, which has reps from all the different villages. Then at the district level we want them to prioritize these projects,” said Spees.

Shouja shared the same sentiment. “I'm looking to the people’s needs. I'm looking to the people’s favorite projects, and then I’m prioritizing those projects. I'm doing my work according to the people’s wishes, according to the people’s needs; that’s my job,” said Shouja.

“I want to have the people of Logar prov. able to work and to have food or subsistence for their families, because if they are jobless, the enemy is using them, and they're joining the enemy’s ranks. I would like to have some long term projects to give them some jobs,” said Shouja.

These projects are not only a means of job creation, but also ensure the security of the people, said Amin. “The people are going to find work. They're not going to be jobless. The economy of the people is going to get better day-by-day, and also the security is going to improve by those projects,” said Amin.

The TF Saber command group and Logar district sub-govs fine tune the PRT Proposal process for reconstruction efforts in the Logar Prov.

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CJTF 82 Public Affairs, Bagram Media Center

It’s cold outside at FOB Lightning

By AF Senior Master Sgt. Jessica D'Aurizio

PAKTIA PROVINCE – Army Spc. Michael Spires, of the 410th MP Co out of Fort Hood, Texas, chops scrap wood for his guard shack stove to keep warm, while standing his post at FOB Lightning, in the Gardez district, March 4.

Sgt. Crista Tucker and Spc. Brandon Demark warm themselves by a stove in their guard shack, while on guard duty.

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Iraqi Stories:

USF-I

Military support adds valuable assistance to ISF security successes

BAGHDAD - ISF with assistance from U.S. Forces are providing voters a safe environment in which to cast a vote toward the future of Iraq. Although few requests have come across U.S. military desks for support, the requests that have come in demonstrate the ISF's resolve to quickly analyze where they need help, and willingness to ask for it, say U.S. officials - a sign of the strong partnership both countries have developed and nurtured over the years.

Requests include assistance with EOD teams, crime scene forensics, military working dog teams, intel, surveillance and recon, as well as command and control coordination.

Colonel Mark Calvert, chief of staff, U.S. Div-Center, said the command and control partnership in particular is as close as it can be at the command centers.

"Throughout the various different levels of ISF command, we are partnered side-by-side to ensure we share info and support their requests during these historic elections," said Calvert. "Because of our partnerships at the command centers, we were able to quickly divert our air weapons teams to support ISF ops on the ground."

That support has also come in the form of escort duties. U.S. forces were tasked to transport UN Assistance Mission for Iraq and U.S. embassy observers near polling stations, to ensure the legitimacy and credibility of the March 7 elections.

In Anbar prov., 1st Bde, 82nd Abn Div (Advise and Assist) paratroopers assisted the ISF by combining their command and control of forces operating throughout the prov. They've been openly exchanging military intel and helping the ISF track significant activities.

Col. Mark Stammer, cmdr of 1/82 AAB, says this relationship "by, with, and through the Iraqis" has enabled partnered security elements on the ground, to protect Anbari citizens as they cast their votes in the national election. "The ISF have conducted countless hours of training and combined ops, allowing them to derail the enemy's efforts to disrupt this electoral process," said Stammer.

"These elections are far too important for the Iraqi people to allow the influence of the criminals from casting their votes of fear and intimidation," said staff Lt. Gen. Al-Mufriji, comm. gen. of the Anbar Ops Command.

In western Baghdad, Col. John Norris, cmdr of 4th Stryker BCT, 2nd ID, traveled around Baghdad March 7, talking to several sheiks. The sheiks told him they were very impressed with the amount of voter turnout at the polling sites. "The election today, as demonstrated by the high voter turnout, was years in the making, and validated the time and effort invested by the U.S.," said Norris. "Today was personally rewarding, having witnessed years of growth, change, and progress."

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USF-I

ISF arrest suspected terrorists in security op

BAGHDAD - IP arrested 3 suspected terrorists March 7, during a joint security op conducted in northern Iraq, targeting a suspected leader of a terrorist group believed to be assisting AQI in planning and carrying out attacks.

IP from the 3rd ERU and U.S. advisors searched a building in a rural area, located approx. 76km SE of Kirkuk for the warranted terrorist leader. Info and evidence gathered during the op led IP to arrest 3 suspected criminal associates of the warranted individual.

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United States Forces - Iraq

Iraqi SOF Arrest Two Suspected Terrorists in Tarmiyah

BAGHDAD - An element of the Iraqi SOF, along with U.S. forces advisors, arrested 2 suspected terrorists in Tarmiyah, March 6. The elite Iraqi military unit was operating under the authority of warrants issued by the Central Investigative Court of Al Karkh.

Intel reports indicate that the suspects are responsible for providing other terrorist cells with IEDs, rockets and suicide vests, as well as for assassinations in the Tarmiyah and Taji areas. One of the suspects is allegedly a member of a weapon facilitation and assassination cell.

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United States Forces - Iraq

Alleged JRTN financier detained in Kirkuk

TIKRIT - Acting on a warrant issued by an Iraqi court, ISF, with U.S. advisors, arrested a suspected Jaysh Rijal Tariq al Naqshabandi cell leader in Kirkuk, March 5. ISF suspect the individual is a key financier and facilitator in the Kirkuk area and the villages of Barwana and Daquq. SF believe the individual obtains funding from outside of the country, and then smuggles the funds into Iraq to sustain terrorist ops.

The suspect is also accused of smuggling weapons into the area from Baghdad.

Intel reports indicate the individual is connected to AQI and ISI cells responsible for VBIED attacks.

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United States Forces - Iraq

Alleged VBIED cell member detained

TIKRIT - ISF, with U.S. advisors, arrested a suspected ISI cell leader in Arii village, Ninawa prov., March 5. The individual is suspected to be a member of a cell responsible for VBIED attacks on Iraqi citizens throughout Ninawa prov. Intel indicates the cell was targeting the Iraqi national elections.

AF Capt. Darrick Lee, Kapisa PRT public affairs officer, distributes hand-crank radios and radio OMID stickers, during a visit to the Nejrab village in Kapisa prov., Feb. 16.

KAPISA PROVINCE – The PRTs are military units that focus on the development and reconstruction of their assigned prov. The Kapisa PRT is a U.S. military team inserted with French TF La Fayette, that enforces different development projects in the prov.. The PRT is composed of 80 people; among those 60 are experts in engineering, agriculture and foreign affairs, and 20 are American civilian specialists who work shoulder to shoulder with the Soldiers in different competency domains.

The det., accompanied by U.S. Agency for Int'l Development members, often visits the Nejrab hospital to have meetings with Dr. Mustapha, the main doctor at the hospital, and check on how the different programs are advancing. For the local doctor, the first steps are to create a program to identify malnourished children. After that's complete, the next step would be to provide them with the "Strong Food," which is a paste made up of almonds, sugar, powdered milk, liquid vitamin supplements and vegetable oil that helps restore appetite and weight.

The engrs of the PRT met with the contractors in charge of construction for the new Nejrab courthouse. The American team than went to the Nejrab market to do some shopping, and speak with the residents of the district. During their visit to the district the PRT handed out radios and stickers that help support OMID, TF La Fayette's radio station.

Later that day, USAID members met the local responsible for "U.N HABITAT," a UN program for human settlements, M. Kushkaki. "We spoke about the evolution of the program, which started 3 months ago," said Jannie Kwok, the USAID rep with the PRT. "Progress is important because today it exists in separated classes for men and women. Those enrolled in the program are really happy to learn how to read and write; it's really a big change in their lives. The next step for educators is to encourage training in milk industry trades and in agriculture domain."

AF Maj. Lori Adams, dep. cmdr of the Kapisa PRT, speaks with the director of the Nejrab village. The Kapisa PRT maintains a close relationship with the residents of the province to better understand the needs of the district.

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Blackanthem Military News

Training Empowers Engineers in IED Fight

By Spc. Jay Venturini, Combined Joint TF - 82 PAO

Staff Sgt. Daniel Walsh (left), and Staff Sgt. Adam Walsh, both combat engrs from Alpha Co, 173rd STB, recover a disabled Talon EOD Robot after a simulated IED detonation as part of Blow in Place-Theater Specific Training, Feb. 24. The course consisted of day and night scenarios to prepare the students for common EOD hazards.

The training, hosted by TF Paladin, is designed to equip route clearance plts with the knowledge and capabilities to identify and destroy certain types of IEDs without the help of EOD personnel.

"This training gives combat engrs the experience they're going to need when they're out on route clearance missions," said Army Staff Sgt. Sean Purdy, 539th EHT BIP-TST instructor. "Their main mission is mobility, so having the skills to blow an IED themselves and continue their mission, is vital to their overall success."

"EOD personnel can't be everywhere at once, so we're using this training to bridge the gap," said Army Brig. Gen. William Buckler, Jr., Joint Force Engr Command cmdr. "These blow-in-place qualified Soldiers will be able to take care of the IEDs that don't merit EOD personnel, which allows us to place EODs at the more critical places on the battle field."

"Having engrs on the roads who know what to look for and how to clear it, really helps Afghanistan to be more fluid, allowing the locals to go where they need to go," said Lt. Col. Mark Leighton, Explosive Hazard Coordination Cell officer-in-charge, Joint Force Engr Command.

A main focus of the training was the use of Talon EOD robots. The robots are used to investigate and place charges on an IED while the controller is a safe distance away."This training is as real as you can get without using real demolition," said Leighton. "The trainers have done this in the real world and make sure the students follow, because they know that this is life or death."

"This training is all about getting Soldiers with a certain skill set, and training them up a little more, so they can become an asset and a combat multiplier on the roads," said Buckler.

FOB SHANK – Army Col. James Johnson, cmdr of TF Bayonet and U.S forces in Logar and Wardak provs., and ANA Brig. Gen. Razik, cmdr., and other Afghan and CF leaders attend the Combined Action Cmdrs’ Conference, Feb. 23. The conference was an opportunity for military leaders to discuss ways that both forces can work together, to improve cooperation and security across the 2 provs.

LOGAR PROVINCE – “Combined action for us, with our Afghan and all of our coalition partners, is a movement forward to achieve the same end state,”said Johnson. ”We must do that in all phases of the op.”

“As we work together, we’re able to help each other understand and plan for the future better,” said Brig. Gen. Razik. Reaching for the same goal while focusing on the future will keep the forces ready, said Razik.

In addition to preparation for the future, the forum attendees focused on specific developments toward security for both provs. “As we all know spring will soon come, and the enemy will also come. Before the enemy starts acting, we'll be there to stop them. We're ready for them,” said Razik.

“We must train together to prepare for the missions, and then we must rehearse together too,” said Johnson. “More importantly, we’ll come back after the mission and figure out what we can do better, so that the next time we're even more successful. Combined action is the all encompassing partnership between us and our coalition partners.”

“Logar and Wardak are the 2 provs. of which General Razik and I am responsible for. They are very diverse. Within these 2 provs, you have different threats, under different conditions, in different districts, so there’s no one uniform action against a specific threat,” said Johnson.

At the end of the combined action forum, a blueprint was made to respond to various threats. “One thing that is consistent is, we're focusing on the population, separating the Afghans from that threat, so that we can achieve the end state of improving their local communities, and giving them more capacity to live a better life,” said Johnson. “I think we've momentum moving forward, and I think the partnership is going to be the most vital piece to that.”

LOGAR PROVINCE -- At FOB Shank Soldiers are using tools accumulated from prepping countless artillery rounds to prepare for assisting troops in contact. Pfc. Adam Hubbard, a cannon crewmember and field artillery specialist, said the intricacies of calibrating artillery rounds and charges are more involved than people think. “You’ve got to have the round runner bring out the round, make sure the charge is right, hand us the round, put the round in, have someone close the breach, put the deflection and quadrant in, make sure we’re going to be on point, and make sure everything goes smoothly as verified by our chief,” said Hubbard.

Every calibration involves connecting data with fire direction control, said Army Pfc. Kenneth Freeborn, a cannon crewmember and field artillery specialist. “We calibrate each lot and each powder to make sure we have all the data in the computer with fire direction control. When we fire a different lot, we have to calibrate each round, and check the velocity and how far that round is going to go,” said Freeborn.

When calibrating, the cannon crewmembers use forward observers to verify target info, said Freeborn. “We've forward observers looking at the impact zone, telling us where to fire,” he said. “They've marks where they want the rounds to land, so we just make our corrections and put the rounds on the ground.”

“The purpose of the calibration is that when we get a tic message, troops in contact, we run out to the guns and we know that when we shoot we’re going to be on point. We know that all our data is correct and that we’re going to hit the target that we intend to hit,” said Hubbard.

Both Freeborn and Hubbard agreed that being in the cannon trails is a great feeling. “I love it; I wouldn’t do anything else in the Army,” said Freeborn. “It’s a rush when you’re inside of the trails and the cannon goes off. There’s nothing like it in the world,” said Freeborn.

“It’s a great feeling hearing that round go off and hearing the boom, smelling the smoke that comes out. It’s a great feeling,” said Hubbard. “We love to shoot, especially when our battle buddies need it. When they need us, we’re here to shoot for them and destroy the enemy.”

TIKRIT - An unlikely reunion occurred for 7 alumni who discovered they were all deployed to the same location despite serving in different units. According to Capt. Timothy Erickson, an attorney with the 4th IBCT, 1st ID out of Fort Riley, Kan., the group of alumni found out that they'd be deployed together through an interconnected network of friends. "The raw probability of 7 people from the same school of 2,400 students to end up at the same base, at the same time is remarkable." Erickson said.

Despite being a small liberal arts college, Wheaton College commissions approx. 20 "Rolling Thunder Bn" cadets each year. All 7 alumni credit Wheaton ROTC for developing them as leaders.

For the "Wheaton 7," the mentorship provided by their ROTC cadre is treasured. "The example of our cadre was developmental to our attitudes of service as an Army officer. The example that they set for us as young, impressionable cadets stays with us to this day," said Capt. Paily Eapen, projects mgr. for the "Dragon" bde.

Retired Lt. Col. Scott Buhmann, Prof. of Military Science at Wheaton College from 1999-2006 has fond memories of his former cadets. "My favorite memories of them and their classmates all revolve around their character and commitment to their job, and to each other. They were a very, very tight knit group, and continue to be so," Buhmann said.

It's the bonds that they built as cadets which have allowed the "Wheaton 7" to maintain lasting friendships, making the deployment a little bit easier. "I was thrilled to know that some old friends would be stationed with me during my deployment. We've had so many laughs here, and many moments when we're together that I feel like I'm back at home," said Capt. Brendan Bell, a general dentist with the 502nd Dental Co.

On a weekly basis, the alumni gather together for dinner, Bible study and to talk about the past and the future. For current Wheaton ROTC cadets, these combat vets have some words of encouragement about leadership and friendship. "Invest in your fellow cadets," Eapen said. "They're friends that you will keep for the long haul."

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USF-I

Newest Iraqi Mortarmen deliver lethal, close range firepower

BESMAYA - More than 140 IA soldiers graduated from the 81 mm mortar course at Besmaya Combat Training Center, Feb. 25. The 4-week course trained soldiers in 3 separate and specialized groups: forward observers, fire direction center and mechanical, all of which are part of an indirect fire team.

During the course, the forward observers learned skills including map reading, how to call for and adjust indirect fire, and occupying an observation post. "The things I learned as a forward observer will help me protect my family and country", said IA Pvt. Abdullah. "I'm proud of graduating ... It's a good feeling."

"Before I came to the course, I knew nothing of mortars," said IA Pvt. Sabar. "Now I feel that I can lead my plt when I go back to my home station." The students put all of their new skills into action during their final training event, a full scale live fire exercise.

During the graduation ceremony, the top officer, soldier and plt were recognized for outstanding achievement. Pvt. Sabar was named the course honor graduate, and received a gift for his accomplishment. "It was a surprise that I didn't expect, but I'm definitely happy," he said.

In Bayji, located approx 102 km SW of Kirkuk, the 3rd ERU and U.S. advisors, in coordination with IP, searched several buildings for a suspected AQI member believed to have carried out multiple IED attacks within the region. Within one of the buildings, the security team discovered weapons, numerous rounds of ammo and IED-making materials such as rolls of copper wire. After conducting preliminary questioning and an initial examination of evidence at the scene, IP arrested 5 suspected criminal assocs of the warranted AQI member.

During a separate security op conducted in a rural area located approx 15 km SW of Baghdad, ISF and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspected AQI explosives-cell member. The wanted individual has allegedly staged attacks in and around Baghdad in addition to having planned coordinated VBIED attacks against the Iraqi govt. Info and evidence gathered during the security op led ISF to arrest the wanted individual and 4 suspected criminal assocs.

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USD-C Press Release

Iraqi security plan proving effective

BAGHDAD (March 7, 2010) - ISF are ready for anything, say U.S. officials whose forces have partnered with the ISF for several months to advise and assist them in preparing for the March 7 national elections. So far, that partnership has proven successful.

Terrorists have initiated a number of small-scale explosions around Baghdad. All attempts so far have fallen short in deterring voter turnout. Iraqi citizens continue to move to the polls and cast their votes in this historic election in the Middle East.

Several explosions that have been felt around the city have destroyed only dilapidated cars and abandoned buildings. In Al Anbar, the ISF arrested attackers in 2 separate incidents before they could get to their intended targets.

As U.S. forces escort int'l observers near polling stations, the ISF is manning multiple layers of checkpoints leading in and out of the polling stations. U.S. forces are to provide security assistance and augment the ISF with bomb-sniffing dog teams, intel, surveillance and recon aircraft, and EOD teams when requested.

Voters endured more than 200 attacks the day prior to elections in 2005. If history is any indicator of Iraqi resolve, it is to cast a vote. Iraqis again showed their resilience 3 days ago when more than 600,000 participated in the special elections, despite 2 attacks in neighborhoods surrounding polling stations in Baghdad.

In one incident, an IA captain gave his life to stop an attacker wearing a vest strapped with explosives, who was attempting to go through a security checkpoint. Another suicide bomber was foiled after attempting unsuccessfully to board a bus at another checkpoint.

Iraqi and U.S. leaders attribute these foiled attempts and the improved security environment to ISF plans, and the extensive training IA soldiers and IP have received, with assistance from the U.S. military.

Feb. saw one of the fewest Iraqi casualties of any month in the last 3 years; January, the 2nd fewest. In fact, there have been fewer casualties in 3 of the last 4 months than at any time in the last 3 years - a 90% decrease in attacks since the peak of surge ops in June 2007.

GHAZNI PROVINCE – “Can you put your head on your pillow and know that you’re respected? Did you offend anyone today, and for what reason?” These are the questions that Staff Sgt. Jerry Bowling asks his Soldiers after each mission.

This Soldier-turned Airman-turned-Soldier is highly respected by the men who work for him, and those he works for. “Loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage – Staff Sgt. Bowling is the personification of the Army Values,” boasted Bowling’s Plt leader, Army 1st. Lt. David Esra, Qara Bagh/Waghez Police Mentoring Team chief assigned to FOB Vulcan's Combined Action Unit. “He's continually proven himself to be an exceptional Soldier and leader. Not once has he sought to meet his own needs before each of his Soldiers’ needs were met.”

Since being in Afghanistan, Bowling has been in multiple IED blasts, and multiple battles, where he exposed himself to enemy fire in order to break-up an enemy attack. He's also responded to incidents where he utilized his paramedic skills, under enemy fire, on civilian causalities on the battlefield.

“I'm only what I am, and who I am because of one person in my life. I’m a reflection of somebody. Who I am, somebody made me,” said Bowling, as he described growing up under the influence of his grandmother. “She’s the one that instilled my morality and my humanitarianism. She was my best friend.”

A series of events led him to join the Army in 1989, at 25. After fulfilling his first enlistment commitment, he got out of the Army and went to school to be a paramedic. “My goal was to go to nursing school in the Army. I got out to save a marriage that was failing. I tried to save it, but it didn’t happen,” said Bowling.

Ten years later, at 35, he joined the AF Reserves as a firefighter. “My transition from green to blue was seamless,” said Bowling. “However, my Army mentality versus my AF mentality was a bit of a problem. I had to learn to relax. The rank structure and the responsibility for an E-6 is not the same in the AF as it is in the Army. The AF is more career-minded, where the Army is leadership driven.”

In October 2004, Bowling saw in the local newspaper that the Georgia NG was preparing to deploy. He knew he wanted to go with them, so he traded in his AF blue to return to his roots of Army green. When asked how he dealt with the transition from blue back to green, he gave the standard Army answer of “too easy.”

“Here in the Army my job is to lead. More than that, it’s to mentor and train the guys to take my place. It’s all about the young guys coming up,” said Bowling. “It’s all part of the cycle.” After serving in Baghdad, he stayed on active duty to be an urban warfare instructor as part of Op Warrior Trainer, a program where returning personnel train current tactics, techniques, and procedures to the soldiers preparing to deploy.

Bowling has also served as a civilian contractor, as an asst fire chief in various areas of SW Asia. Upon returning to the states, he moved from Atlanta to Northern Idaho, leaving behind his career as a firefighter to go back to emergency medical services. “It’s hard to say, but painfully true,” he explained. “I left the leadership position because I’m not a bureaucratic administrative type of person. I can do it, but the joy for me is being involved with the people. I like to mentor others to rise. I get more success, and I feel better about myself when I help someone else lift themselves up.”

In March 2008, Bowling heard that the Guard unit was deploying to Afghanistan. "I got an email from the 1st Sgt., who was in my company in Iraq, saying that they could really use some help, that they needed my style of leadership. One day I woke up and said to myself, ‘Hey, what am I doing? I know those guys that are over there need me.’ So I called the 1st Sgt. and asked him if he needed my help. He responded with, ‘I was wondering when you were going to call’”.

Since being deployed to Afghanistan as a plt sgt, Bowling has led his team of 30 Soldiers, who range in age from 19 to 57. “I’m very proud to be in this unit,” said Bowling. While discussing being in the leadership role, Bowling quickly explained that there is no greater honor. “You're responsible for someone’s son or daughter. I have some 22- and 24-year-olds that are married with kids. I’m taking care of someone’s husband and dad. The moms and dads don’t know who has their son, but the son knows who’s keeping him in check. There’s not a greater honor in the world. That’s why I’m here. It’s not about pulling the trigger and shooting the bad guy. I’d like to say that maybe when I was 25, and first joined the Army, that’s what I was all about. However, with the maturity of life over the course of the military, and what it’s done for me, shows there's just so much more to it than that. If you ask any of my soldiers what my 2 main priorities are, they’ll tell you it’s safety and security. They’re parallel with each other. They're first, last, and always.”

Although Bowling is an E-6, he has excelled at taking on the roles and responsibilities of the E-7 position he is assigned to. “The higher in rank you get, the farther you get from the men. I belong with the men. I would not ask them to do something that I wouldn’t do myself.”

Proving true to his words, in September 2009, Bowling successfully led his Soldiers during an 8-hour firefight where 5 insurgents were killed and 6 were captured. During this engagement, Bowling placed himself in harm’s way by exposing himself to heavy enemy fire to clear a wood line and kalat wall. He then led 3 Soldiers on foot to clear one thousand meters of rough terrain while under enemy fire.

Currently, Bowling has 20 years of total active federal military service. When asked if he will retire, he replied that he'll stay in the NG, but wants to return to nursing school. “I’d just started nursing school around 9/11,” recalled Bowling. “I got deployed, and never finished. It’s been 9 years and I keep kicking myself in the butt for not finishing.” When asked if asked if he'd stop school and deploy again, he quickly responded “Yes.”

KUNAR PROVINCE – ANA soldier Said Husain, a plt sgt, lets a young boy wear his hat during a patrol through the Manogai District of Kunar province, Feb. 16. ANA Soldiers continue developing closer community relationships ,and taking the lead in providing security for their areas of responsibility.

KUNAR PROVINCE – Every few days the Soldiers of Co F leave their base and put themselves in harm's way to deliver supplies to the rest of TF Lethal. Although their mission may seem small, the company's contribution to the fight ensures the bn's success throughout the Pech River Valley in Kunar prov. Capt. Edward Gutierrez, cmdr of Co F, said that as a forward support co., his unit provides distribution, maintenance and field feeding support to the entire bn.

Pfc. Arturo Salgado Jr., a truck driver and gunner explained that the unit faces everything from IEDs and small arms fire, to RPGs and recoilless rifle attacks. "We provide cover not just for us to be safe, but for the equipment we're delivering," he said.

Spc. Timothy Lee Hecke, also a truck driver and gunner explained that one way the unit achieves this is by avoiding complacency, using techniques such as moving Soldiers around and cross-training.

Gutierrez also spoke about the cross-training, explaining that all of his Soldiers were given the same training. "What we focussed on in the rear was training everyone equally," he said. The approach has paid off preparing each Soldier for any situation."I can draw off anybody to fill a role at any moment," said Gutierrez. "What we do, it's not sexy, it doesn't make the newspaper too many times," Gutierrez said. "We support our infantry brothers, bringing bullets, bringing food, so they can continue to fight the enemy."

An Afghan truck driver waits outside his vehicle during a break on a supply convoy. The co. leads convoys like this one into Pech River Valley on a regular basis.

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Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO

82nd Paratrooper Searches for 'buried Treasure'

By Staff Sgt. Susan Wilt

Army Sgt. Benjamin Rudy enjoys a picnic with his 2 kids Taylor, 4 and Logan, 6 on their pirate ship playground that Rudy built for them. Rudy uses pirates as a way of explaining to his kids, that he's leaving for awhile when he deploys. He tells his kids that he has to go on a pirate ship, so he can bring home treasures. He's currently deployed to Afghanistan with Combined Joint TF-82.

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – It's not uncommon to see Sgt. Benjamin Kirk Rudy walking around with an elaborate Pirate-style coffee mug while spouting off some random pirate fact. What many don't know about this quirky, charismatic paratrooper is that there's more to his pirate obsession than meets the eye.

He uses the pirate character as a way to bond with his 2 children during deployments. "They were so young that they didn't understand I was in the Army, so I would say that I was a pirate, and that I was going on a pirate trip to go get treasure," explained 29-year-old Rudy. "They would get a kick out of that and tell me to hurry up and go get treasures."

Joining the Army at 18 years old, Rudy, a Combined Joint TF-82 Joint Ops Center force protection NCO, is currently serving a 13 -month deployment to Afghanistan with CJTF-82, the HQ of Regional Command-East, which is his 3rd "treasure hunt," or deployment.

"The way they can understand time is for every month I have left, that's how many ships we have left to search." Of course, his 6 year old son knows his dad is a Paratrooper, but the pirate theme makes going away easier.

When "Rude dog" comes home from his treasure hunts he always makes sure he has riches for his kids. "Last deployment I brought back a handmade treasure chest filled with coins and goodies for them," said Rudy.

"He has a concern for people. Anyone he looks to and says, 'That's my friend,' he has a concern for. He will go out of his way for that person; he has an undying loyalty," said Sgt. 1st Class Vernon Foster, the personal security officer to Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, the comm. gen. of CJTF-82 and the 82nd Abn Div.

Foster said he's great for helping raise someone's spirits when they're in a foul mood, or help them get over their mid-deployment slump. "Rudy's great for when you need to laugh; he really is," Foster said. "Especially here, no matter how upbeat you are, there's going to be a time over the course of 12, 13 months when you're going to get down, and that's when someone needs to laugh... When you get into that particular spot in the deployment he's really good to have around, because there's something about his personality that just makes you laugh. He's going to make you feel a little better than what you were... He'll help you start that uphill climb."

To help raise people's spirits with laughter, Rudy draws his comedy inspiration from Steven Colbert, the host of the talk show 'The Colbert Report.' "He's a true patriot; he loves America, and he's funny," said Rudy, who wants to take over Steven Colbert's show one day. "He inspires people like me and others to enjoy life."

Rudy hopes to pursue acting and comedy in the future, along with many other goals, such as retiring from the Army, owning a business, and most importantly, passing his values on to his kids. "I want my kids to learn my love of people, to enjoy life and each other," he said. "What my kids do know is that I love them, whether pirate or Soldier."

Sgt. Benjamin Rudy, looks at a map that will help him find buried treasure. The mug and the map were sent to him as gifts from his kids.

Sgt. Rudy flies in a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter during a battlefield circulation with command of CJTF-82, Jan 16. Rudy's known amongst his peers as being a class clown and will go out of his way to cheer someone up.

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CJTF 82 Public Affairs, Bagram Media Center

U.S. Army Soldiers Check on Villagers

By Army Spc. Albert Kelley

KUNAR PROVINCE – Army Sgt. Robert Jones, a squad leader with 2nd Plt, Co D, 2nd Bn, 12th Inf Regt, TF Lethal, converses with a young boy from the Kandagal village in the Manogai district of Kunar prov., Feb. 16. Recently, an anti-Afghan mortar shell landed in the village. The platoon visited to check on the health of a young resident injured in the attack.

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Iraqi Stories:

DVIDS

Oregon National Guard Soldiers Continue Operations

(Photos by Spc. Anita VanderMolen

Soldiers stop along the road to refuel while travelling in Iraq's red air caused by a sandstorm, Feb. 22.

Lights glow during an evening view of the Gates Of Babylon restaurant at Camp Slayer, Feb. 25.

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DVIDS

Filtration Plant Patrol

(Photos by Capt. Murray Shugars)

COB Q-WEST - Staff Sgt. Benjamin Wills, a squad leader, scans the rooftops and back alleys of Al Qayarrah, from the water filtration plant that serves COB Q-West, during a routine patrol to the Tigris River pump house, Feb. 20. Wills belongs to A Co, 2nd Bn, 198th Combined Arms, 155th BCT out of Hernando, Miss., the Q-West force protection co.

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested 8 suspected terrorists, including an alleged attack-group leader, believed to be assisting the AQI terrorist group in planning and carrying out pre-election attacks. The arrests occurred during 4 joint security ops conducted in central and northern Iraq, March 3.

AQI leaders have publicly announced their intentions to stage pre-election attacks against civilians and SECFOR, in an attempt to dissuade voters from participating in national elections.

In SW Baghdad, ISF and U.S. advisors searched a residential building for a suspected AQI leader whose group is believed to be responsible for conducting high-profile attacks and robberies in Baghdad. Intel indicates AQI is increasingly dependent on criminal activity to fund its attacks in the region.

The security team found materials used to make IEDs inside the building. Following preliminary questioning and an examination of evidence at the scene, ISF identified and arrested the wanted AQI leader.

During a 2nd security op conducted in western Baghdad, ISF and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspected member of an AQI cell believed to be responsible for planning and executing deadly IED attacks and assassinations throughout the region. According to intel reports, the suspect is known to hide materials used to construct explosives with the intent to build, transport and place bombs prior to national elections. Within one of the searched buildings, the security team discovered multiple triggering devices for explosives. Info and evidence gathered during the security op led ISF to identify and arrest the wanted AQI member and 2 suspected criminal associates.

During a 3rd security op conducted in Hafriyah, located approx 89 km SE of Kirkuk, the 3rd ERU and U.S. advisors searched several residential buildings for a suspected terrorist-group leader who assists other terrorist groups, like AQI, to plan and conduct pre-election attacks. After conducting preliminary questioning and examining the evidence at the scene, IP arrested 2 suspected criminal associates of the wanted individual.

During a 4th security op conducted in a rural area located approx 102 km NE of Baghdad, the 3rd ERU and U.S. advisors searched 2 residential buildings for a suspected AQI member who assists the terrorist group's leadership in communicating instructions and messages between the Diyala Prov. and Baghdad. Evidence and info collected during the op led IP to arrest 2 criminal associates of the warranted individual.

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DVIDS

Iraqi Army females graduate basic training

BAGHDAD - The 3rd Iraqi Female Basic Combat Training class graduated at Old Al Muthana Air Base, March 3. These soldiers, from various provs throughout Iraq learned fundamental military skills such as marching, weapons handling and marksmanship.

The 65 soldiers completed 6 weeks of rigorous training in anticipation of this day. Although their primary jobs will be administrative in nature, the first duties the women will perform will be in support of elections security.

"We celebrate this graduation and thank the U.S. advisors for their assistance," said Lt. Gen. Hussein Dohi, Chief of Staff Assist of Training, in his opening speech. He stressed the importance of this graduating class, and stated that he's very proud of the graduates. "They will do great things," he said.

Each graduate was called to the front of the formation and given flowers and gifts. Once the Legal Directorate delivered the oath, a cheerful roar broke out among the ranks as the female soldiers chanted and danced in celebration of their achievements.

"We're proud of our female soldiers," said Maj. Gen. Al Bash, Basic Training Tactical Center Dir., sentiments about the newly graduated Female BCT class. Since the 1st course was conducted in June 2009, 190 females have completed the training. The IA plans to open a special center for Female BCT Training at Old Al Muthana in the future.

KUNAR - ISAF destroy a fighting position using air-to-ground rockets in the Laghram Valley, Feb 18. Army Soldiers with 2nd Plt, Co D, 2nd Bn, 12th Inf Regt, 4th BCT, 4th ID, searched the area nearby with ANP following an attack against a convoy using small arms fire and RPGs. ISAF destroyed about 5 fighting positions and a weapons cache, using artillery, mortar fire and air-to-ground rockets.

ANP and Army Soldiers with 2nd Plt, move from cover to search an area near Sundray village.

The 30-year-old Shenigam Footbridge spans the Pech River in the Watapur district, and will soon be replaced through the District Development Assembly program. Gulkhan, sector director for the Watapur DDA, said he expects the bridge will be replaced in about 3 months. (Army photo by Spc. Albert Kelley)

KUNAR PROVINCE – U.S. Army Soldiers often refer to the Shenigam Footbridge as the “Indiana Jones Bridge.” It does not take much imagination to see why the 30-year-old bridge has a reputation, assembled from a seemingly random assortment of old broken planks, piled stones and worn lumber.

No deaths have been reported, but children and animals have been injured falling from the narrow pathway into the Pech River below. This will soon change with the building of a modern footbridge by the Afghan govt under the supervision of the District Development Assembly. It will be the district’s first large-scale project under the program.

In Watapur, there are 13 DDA members, representing about 60 Afghan villages, meeting on a weekly basis with an ISAF civil affairs team. Where previously, ISAF units would determine needed projects, and then handle their construction through the Cmdr Emergency Relief Program, now the village reps decide on priorities and oversee their implementation.

Army Capt. Shaun Conlin, cmdr of Co C, 2nd Bn, 12th Inf Regt, TF Lethal, said it has taken time for the national DDA program to gain a foothold here. It has done so by initially concentrating on smaller – yet high-impact projects that take less than a month to complete, such as wells and retaining walls, he said. A total of 27 out of 42 proposed projects have been completed in the district.

The DDA is not just responsible for identifying needs for the community. It also comes up with the projects, requests local bids from contractors, and then provides both quality assurance and quality control. One sign of hope is that about half of the DDA reps come from areas of the district considered hostile to govt and ISAF officials. “It speaks volumes that reps from villages that normally don’t want anything to do with the Afghan govt want to get involved in this process,” Conlin said.

The unit at COP Honaker-Miracle is continually seeking more involvement in the DDA. During one of several weekly meetings, 2nd Lt. Florent Groberg, a platoon leader with Co. C, talked to elders of Ander Seil village. The elders discussed their desire for electricity and even street lights for their community. “It’s our job to let them know what’s going on, and get them involved,” Groberg said prior to the meeting. “That’s the only way we can be successful in our mission.”

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DoD Imagery

(DoD photo by Senior Airman Kenny Holston, AF)

A U.S. Army soldier assigned to Charlie Co, 82nd Abn Div shakes the hand of a young Afghan child, while on a dismounted patrol at a village in southern Afghanistan, Feb. 5, 2010. The U.S. Army and Canadian Forces Land Force Command are helping the ANA clear several villages of IEDs, weapons caches and illegal drugs.

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Iraqi Stories:

Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Patrol in Al Maqil Market Place

(Photos by Spc. Samantha Ciaramitaro)

AL MAQIL - Two young Iraqi girls interested in the camera follow U.S. Soldiers as they walk through the market place in Al Maqil, Feb. 22, 2010. The Soldiers were talking to locals about the upcoming Iraq national elections that will take place March 7, 2010.

Army Staff Sgt. Samuel Ward, assigned to the Guardians Maneuver Det, 17th Fires Bde, 1st ID, pulls security while U.S. Soldiers from the Tactical Psychological Ops Det complete their mission. The mission of the TPD was to gain insight on the thoughts of local Iraqis concerning the upcoming Iraq national elections.

Cpl. Patrick Bramlett and an IFP officer speak to Iraqi shop owners about the security.

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Key Leader Engagement at Camp Taji

(Army photo by Spc. Advin Illa-Medina)

AL AWAD - A local Iraqi sheik, local residents and Soldiers from 1st Plt, Alpha Co, 2nd Bn, 2-3 Inf Regt discuss future issues of the elections at Al Awad, Feb. 24, 2010. The mission was part of a key leader engagement with local sheiks to discuss security issues around Taji market, before the upcoming elections in March 2010.

SAAB AL BOUR - Army 2nd Lt. Pasko from 1st Plt Alpha Co, 2-23 Inf Regt enters a local home at Saab Al Bour, Feb. 21. Soldiers and the IA were part of a joint patrol around the local city homes to confiscate illegal weapons and check for proper weapon licenses.

2nd Lt. Pasko and IA search a local home.

2nd Lt. Pasko looks at different areas on a map.

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Operation Back to School

(Army photos by Spc. Advin Illa-Medina)

UM NAJIM - A local school teacher carries school supplies into his classroom in Um Najim, Feb. 22, 2010. U.S. Soldiers and IA were part of Op Back to School, to provide donations for a local Iraqi school as a humanitarian aid mission.

Local Iraqi students giggle and smile while being photographed at school.

Army and local Iraqi students waive to the camera.

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DoD Imagery

(DoD photo by Pfc. Shane Samuels, Army)

Army Sgt. Emily Burgess of 1st ID, Cantigy Brass Band, teaches an Iraqi girl how to play the French horn at an Arts Festival in Kut, Feb. 26, 2010. The festival consisted of Iraqi stage art, paintings and photography.

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DoD Imagery

(DoD photo by Spc. Anderson Savoy, Army)

Army soldiers of Charlie Troop, 1st Bn, 14th Cav Regt, 2nd ID talk to an IP officer to make preparations for a joint patrol in Asruyah, Feb. 8, 2010. U.S. soldiers show support for the IA by escorting them through a local farming village in Asruyah.

FALLUJAH - A local citizen speaks with leaders of the IA and IP, supported by U.S. Marines and U.S. Soldiers, during a cordon and search in the area of Fallujah, Feb. 24, 2010. The cordon and search op is to improve and maintain security prior to and throughout the upcoming elections.

Marines enjoy a meal prepared for them at the local IP station with fellow IA soldiers.

MOSUL - Army Sgt. William Weisenberger, assigned to the 114 MP Co, 3-17 MP Bn, 49 Inf Bde, teaches the IP the importance in moving as one unit during a riot situation in Mosul, Feb. 25, 2010. IP are learning riot control techniques to help control local violence.

Sgt. John Wallace teaches the IP the importance of your body facing the crowd in a riot situation.

Spc. Nick Checchia and Spc. Jacob Bond, dance with the IP in Mosul.

Spc. Gary Fagan, teaches a class on first aid to the Iraqi Riot Control Co. Fagan shows the Iraqi's how to check to see if the casualty is breathing.

AL SINIYAH AIR BASE - Several Co. D Soldiers coordinated for the helicopter support, and flew over the deserts of northern Salah ad-Din Province observing villages, natural terrain features and road intersections with their IA counterparts.

The flight provided IA Soldiers opportunities to observe strengths, weaknesses and potential vulnerabilities in their areas of responsibility. "This was my 2nd helicopter recon, and it was very exciting. I noticed certain villages and areas that I would have never seen from the ground," said Lt. Mohammad. "Going on this mission helps me better understand the land, and will help me do my job."

Soldiers also used the recon to analyze and observe potential areas of enemy activity."Being able to see my bn's area of responsibility from the air will help us with planning our missions," said IA Lt. Waleed, intel officer. "I'll share this experience and the things I saw with other officers from my unit. We can make adjustments to the areas we focus our troops and our patrols."

Using maps, the officers were able to track the mission's progress, allowing them to take notes on specific things they saw in certain areas. If the Iraqi officers saw something interesting, headset radios were available to communicate with the pilots, who then circled and flew by the area again.

"The IA officers were excited by the opportunity of having a bird's eye view of the land they discuss in meetings, and patrol with their Soldiers every day," said 1st Lt. Ben Juvinall, EO, Co. D, 2-16 Inf.

FARAH PROVINCE - Feb. 16, in addition to visually inspecting flooded portions of the Farah to Pusht Rod segment of the Route 515 road construction project, members of the Farah PRT also checked old and new culverts, took a soil sample, and spoke with the local Afghan contractors about any challenges or concerns that may affect the road's completion. The PRT-sponsored project began Oct. 19, 2009, and is expected to be finished by June 2010. One of the owners of the Brotheran Alekoza Farahi Construction Co., estimates that the road is 55% complete.

Navy Lt. J.G. John Victoria, an engr with the Farah PRT, explains to Army Staff Sgt. Henry Cruz Jr., a SECFOR member with the PRT, that he and one of the contractors with the Brotheran Alekoza Farahi Construction Co., are moving further down the construction site of Route 515. Victoria was asked by the contractor to view 2 aqueducts near the road's path heading into Pusht Rod District's Center. The contractor is concerned about disturbing water flow to local crops. When finished, it'll offer ease of mobility for 3 villages along its path, while encouraging commerce between those villages and Farah prov's main population center, Farah City.

A passenger bus carries fuel cans and local Afghans away from Farah City towards Pusht Rod District while driving on a segment of Route 515.

With the help of a Farah PRT interpreter, Navy Lt. J.G. John Victoria speaks with Akhond Zadah and Mohammad Zadah, both owners of the Brotheran Alekoza Farahi Construction Company. The contractors are concerned about the final stretch to the Pusht Rod District Center, because they don't want to harm irrigation aqueducts currently being used by local farmers.

Members of the Farah PRT stand on a newly compacted soil surface, known as a sub-base, that will soon be considered the Farah to Pusht Rod segment of Route 515.

With the help of a Farah PRT interpreter, Army Staff Sgt. Jeromy Shoell, PRT Civil Affairs Team leader, speaks with a local motorcycle tire repair shop owner. Shoell asked the young Afghan entrepreneur about how the new Farah to Pusht Rod segment of the road has affected his business. He also asked the young man about the needs of his village which was nearby.

GHAZNI PROVINCE - Over a lunch of rice, potatoes, flat bread and lamb, a friendly, slender man with a fairly close cropped beard (by Afghan standards), speaks of an incident that turned him against the Taliban. "At age 17 the Taliban beat me and cut off all my hair, so I just put it in my heart, and from that day I swore I would fight the Taliban, Abdul Rauf said. "That's the only reason I'm here, to fight the Taliban."

Rauf was motivated to work with the Americans and against the Taliban. "The first day Americans came here, I'm working for you," he added. That's the kinds of support that American forces from 3rd Plt, a Combined Action Unit, rely on. "In a CAU the spectrum is bigger," explained the plt leader, Army 1st Lt. David Esra. "It's the whole govt, not just the police. As a CAU we also work with the village elders and sub-govs in each district. The idea is to develop a govt that the people see works for them."

Esra's unit works hard to get the Afghan people to take responsibility for their country."Everything is supposed to be Afghan lead," he said. "The Combined Action piece is where we run missions with the ANSF. We still mentor them through the military decision-making process, and we guide them through the planning process, but they lead the way. People see them in front."

Army Capt. William Broach, cmdr, Co. D, 1-121 Inf. Reg., reinforced the importance of the ANSF and 3rd Plt's work. "It's putting the ANSF out there and letting the people see them, and getting the people to gain confidence in their security and the ability of their govt to support them," Broach said. "3rd plt has led the way in mentoring and teaching the ANP in Qara Bagh, taking them from a sub-standard force to a highly proficient fighting unit."

1st Lt. David Esra, right, speaks with Chief of Police, Abdul Rauf.

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American Forces Press Service

Marjah Clearing Phase Nears Completion

By John J. Kruzel

The first phase of a Marine offensive in a former Taliban stronghold in Helmand prov. is nearing completion, the Pentagon's No. 2 official said March 2.

As the military ops of the roughly 15,000 NATO and Afghan forces that have been engaged in Op Moshtarak since Feb. 13 begin to wind down, the focus in the Marjah section of central Helmand is shifting from clearing out the enemy, to holding the gains the op has brought about.

"Our strategy, however, recognizes that military action is only the first step in a successful transition," said Dep. Defense Secretary William Lynn III. "The Afghan govt and SECFOR must ultimately take responsibility for security and governance."

Lynn said U.S. Marines are working alongside Afghan and U.S. civilians to help establish govt services in Marjah. "Because of our new strategy, and President Obama's deployment of additional troops, Marja is one of many cities in Afghanistan that has begun to have hope, and with Pakistan's capture of key Taliban leaders, the strategy of targeting adversaries on both sides of the border is paying off."

"We still have a long road ahead," Lynn said, "but we're working hard with the Afghan govt and with our partners to shift the momentum in our favor."

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American Forces Press Service

Forces Find Drugs, Detain Insurgents

Afghan/ISAF seized large quantities of illegal drugs, detained suspected insurgents, and seized illegal weapons in recent ops. A large drug cache in the Kash Rod district of Nimroz prov. was discovered March 2.

The cache contained 55 lbs of wet opium, 100 gallons of liquid morphine, 30 gallons of liquid chemical precursors, 220 lbs of pure heroin, and 110 lbs of heroin waste products. In addition, the cache contained 660 lbs of ammonium nitrate fertilizer, a material often used in homemade bombs. This amount of ammonium nitrate could have produced about 1,500 lbs of homemade explosives, officials said.

Another cache was found in the same district later this afternoon containing 88 pounds of opium gum, 88 pounds of morphine base, 39 gallons of precursor chemicals for opium processing and drug-processing equipment.

In a separate drug find March 1, a combined patrol in the Reg-e Khan Neshin district of Helmand found about 200 lbs of marijuana, almost 50 lbs of hashish and 100 lbs of seeds. Three suspects were detained.

In other recent ops:

-- An Afghan-ISAF detained suspected insurgents March 2, in a rural area of the Nawah-ye Barakzai district of Helmand prov. Another combined force in Helmand, detained 2 suspected insurgents outside the town of Khugyani Gundey in the Nahr-e Saraj district.

-- In Khost prov. March 1, an Afghan-ISAF outside the town of Surwapan Tuy in the Sabari district captured several insurgents and found multiple rifles, shotguns and grenades. In a separate Khost op, a combined force near the village of Karizownah in the Sabari district detained several suspected insurgents, including a known Haqqani terrorist network facilitator responsible for the purchase and movement of weapons.

An Afghan boy receives medical attention from Navy Lt. Michelle Lynch, a flight surgeon with MEB-Afghanistan HQ Group, during a village medical outreach in Helmand prov, Feb. 4, 2010. Medical personnel from MEB-Afghanistan are working with joint military forces to provide medical assistance to civilians, and create goodwill between Afghans and CF.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Fredrick Torres, C Co., 3-158 pilot, plays the violin during the USO tour at JBB. Torres was stationed here during his OIF deployment, and played violin in his free time. U.S.

JOINT BASE BALAD - Shortly after arriving at JBB, a 3rd Bn, 158 Aviation Regt UH-60 Black Hawk pilot received a mission to fly members of the USO tour throughout Iraq. The usual mission provided an unusual experience, and jump start to the pilot's OIF deployment.

While talking to a few of the tour members, the conversation turned to the fact that Chief Warrant Officer 2 Fredrick Torres, C Co., 3-158 pilot, was an experienced violin player. "I showed up to the USO tour and they introduced me," said Torres. "I got up there and didn't know what to expect."

Torres said he enjoyed the rare chance to play with the members of the tour in front of his fellow friends, Soldiers and leadership. "I was pretty nervous, and then it was pretty freaking awesome," said Torres. "I had a great time that night."

The unit's EO, Maj. Bart Johnke, said Torres' performance at the USO show was a morale booster for both Torres and the rest of the unit. "He legitimately sounded good and matched in with the band," said Johnke. "It was good to see, and he was a good rep for the unit." In his free time, he played violin and taught fellow Soldiers how to play the instrument.

When not deployed, Torres, who's been playing violin for 21 years, wrote music for artists and clubs in the U.S.

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Blackanthem Military News

TF Marne elite compete in biathlon

By Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone Marshall Jr.

The inaugural group of biathletes takes off during TF Marne's 1st biathlon at COB Speicher, near Tikrit, Feb. 27.

(Photo by Sgt. Jonathan Jobson)

COB SPEICHER - There are those that choose to accept what is the basic norm, and those that decide to challenge themselves, pushing their bodies to the limit. Forty-two of the toughest Soldiers TF Marne has to offer, competed in a grueling test of wills.

The scoring system was a combination of the Soldiers' efficiency at the range combined with their run times after negotiating the muddy, wet 7.4-plus mile, round trip run. "It was a test of their endurance and how well they could shoot," explained Maj. Dennis O'Reilly, dep. div. surgeon, 3rd ID, breaking down the events. "They had to run over 3.7 miles to the range, put on all their protective gear that they wear in combat, fire 10 rounds at a 25-meter target, then drop their combat gear, and run back, all done in ACUSs and boots with rifles."

When the winners were announced, the competitors from 25th CAB, TF Wings, led the way. 1st Lt Valerie Aquino, HSC, 209th Aviation Support Bn, and Spc. Douglas Long, Co E, 2nd Bn, 25th Aviation Regt, both of TF Wings, led all competitors with a combined 363 points. Aquino also had the highest individual score of any competitor, scoring 185 points."It feels great," said 1st Lt. Aquino, on her accomplishments. "I'm glad it's over, but it was very exciting. My goals were to not give up, and to hopefully win. I'm very happy I had a chance to represent my unit."

Specialist Long, 1st place winner for all male biathletes with 178 points, also weighed in on his reason for competing. "I think it just shows how dedicated I am to physical fitness and keeping myself healthy. Running in ACUs (Army Combat Uniform), boots and with a weapon … it really changes the dynamics of running."

A triumphant finisher, Spc. Long discussed his pride in being involved in the TF's first biathlon, knowing the stiff level of competition. "It feels pretty good," he concluded. "All that hard work paid off. I knew it was going to be tough. Every unit was going to send their best. So winning certainly felt good, and knowing that you were selected to represent your entire brigade was pretty cool."

After removing the contents of the 2nd cache, ISF continued the search finding a 3rd cache containing 2 RPG launchers. A 57 mm mortar tube with the base plate was found at a 4th cache.

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USF-I

Suspected ISI cell leader arrested by ISF in Bayji

TIKRIT - ISF, with U.S. advisors, arrested a suspected ISI cell leader in Bayji, Salah ad-Din prov., Feb. 28. ISF believe the suspect is responsible for financing and supporting terrorist ops, and housing foreign fighters in the prov. Intel reports also indicate the individual is allegedly connected to an assassination and kidnapping cell, and that he personally beheaded several victims.

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USF-I

March 2, 2010

ISF target Baghdad AQI leadership, arrest 2

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested 2 suspected terrorists March 2, during a joint security op conducted in western Baghdad, targeting the AQI terrorist group, to hinder planned attacks within the capital city preceding the country's upcoming election.

ISF and U.S. advisors searched a residential building for the suspected AQI leader whose group is believed responsible for conducting high-profile attacks and robberies in Baghdad.

Following preliminary questioning and examination of the evidence at the scene, ISF arrested 2 suspected criminal associates of the wanted individual.

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USF-I

Suspected VBIED cell leader arrested in Sulaymaniya

TIKRIT - A suspected Jaysh Rijal al-Tariqah al Naqshabandiyah cell leader was arrested in Sulaymaniya, Feb. 24. In a combined effort between Ramadi and Sulaymaniya SECFOR, the individual was arrested in the Sulaymaniya area.

The individual is believed to be a JRTN cell leader in Ramadi responsible for VBIED attacks. ISF believe the suspect is also an amir for AQI in both Baghdad and Mosul, and has connections with Ansar al-Sunna.

Soldiers with the 3rd Plt march back to their Stryker armored vehicles, after conducting a population engagement at a Kuchi camp near Spin Boldak, Feb. 19.

1st Lt. Ryan Gregory meets with village elders at a Kuchi camp.

Lt. Col. William Clark, cmdr of the 8th Sqdrn, hosts a shura, or consultation, at FOB Spin Boldak, Feb. 22. Soldiers are meeting with Afghan leaders to discuss community issues and to present them with a fire truck.

Spin Boldak Gov. Ghani thanks U.S. Soldiers.

Lt. Col. Clark presents District Gov. Ghani with a new fire truck for the people of Spin Boldak.

Soldiers with the 3rd Plt conduct an assessment of an ABP checkpoint in Spin Boldak, Feb. 19.

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American Forces Press Service

Afghan Meeting in Marjah Attracts 200 Residents

Compiled from ISAF Joint Command news releases

Meetings of influential villagers have outnumbered military engagements over the last few days in Op Moshtarak, military officials reported Feb. 25. At the invitation of Helmand Gov. Mangal, Haji Zahir, the Nad-e Ali dep. district gov. held such a meeting, called a “shura,” in Marjah, that was attended by 200 residents.

Zahir spoke about improving security conditions, and said that more ANP would be posted in Marjah. He promised to ensure the opening of shops and clinics, and personally oversaw the distribution of rice, beans, cooking oil and sugar to the gathering. New shops have opened at bazaars in Marjah, with new products such as telephones, computers and other electronics being offered alongside fresh fruits and vegetables.

ISAF Joint Command officials reported “a significant increase” in the number of local residents returning to the area, accompanied by a decrease in the number of residents registering as internally displaced persons.

Occasional small-arms engagements are still being reported, and roadside bombs remain as the greatest threat to civilians and SECFOR, officials said.

Tips from civilians reporting the locations of roadside bombs have increased by nearly 50%, officials said, and a greater number of homemade bombs being turned in by central Helmand residents. Both of these trends, officials said, are contributing to greater safety and security for civilians and combined forces in the area.

In other news, an Afghan-ISAF found several caches of weapons and drugs in the Gizab district of Daykundi prov., Feb. 25. The caches contained more than a half ton of ammonium nitrate, more than 100 lbs of opium, more than 2 lbs of pure heroin, a small bag of opium seeds, an RPG launcher, an assortment of weapons, and a substantial amount of ammo. The SECFOR arrested a suspected insurgent in the op, who is now in ANP custody.

In the Marjah area of Helmand prov., a security patrol found a substantial amount of ammonium nitrate in a compound. The patrol was involved in clearing the city in support of Op Moshtarak, when they found more than 5,000 lbs of the potentially explosive material along with bomb components.

Ammonium nitrate-based homemade explosives continue to be used in the production of the roadside bombs, officials said. The amount in these caches could have produced more than 13,000 lbs of explosive material.

The Afghan govt recently banned ammonium nitrate-based fertilizers, and farmers are encouraged to use fertilizers containing urea nitrate as an alternative.

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Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO

Greenhouse, Well Open at DAIL Office in Parwan

(Photos by Staff Sgt. Donald Reeves)

PARWAN PROVINCE - (From left to right) Parwan provincial Abdul Salangi, Kentucky ADT leader, Army Lt. Col. Ruth Graves, Army Lt. Col. Marion Peterson, and the head of Parwan Dir. of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, Shri Amri, cut the ribbon on a new diesel powered generator, that will supply power for a well and provide irrigation to local farmers, Feb. 24.

A member of the Kentucky ADT walks past newly installed water tower. According to Army Lt. Col. Marion Peterson, the Kentucky ADT, made up of civilians and the Kentucky NG and works under TF Cyclone, helps by providing infrastructure and training to local farmers and the Afghan equivalent of county extension agents.

Kentucky NG and team leader of the Kentucky ADT, Lt. Col. Ruth Graves, presents certificates to Shri Amri, alongside Gov. Salangi. The greenhouse will be used to teach Afghans how to extend their growing season.

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Defense Imagery Management Operations Center

Soldiers Meet With Local Afghan Leaders

AF photos by Master Sgt. Juan Valdes)

WESH - Trucks arrive at the new customs yard at the border crossing in Wesh, Feb. 21. The new customs yard helps better organize the customs process for vehicles traveling into Afghanistan.

Lt. Col. William Clark, cmdr of the 8th Sqdrn, 1st Cav Regt, communicates the impact of the combined effort Soldiers, ANSF and Spin Boldak leaders have had in the area, Feb. 22, at FOB Spin Boldak.

Lt. Col. Clark greets Spin Boldak Gov. Ghani.

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DoD Imagery

(DoD photo by Sgt. Russell Gilchrest, Army)

Army soldiers, from Alpha Co, 1st Bn, 503rd Inf Regt, 173rd Abn BCT, conduct a dismounted patrol near the village of Lwar, while a group of local children follow along in Wardak prov., Feb. 13, 2010. Dismounted patrols are a great way to form friendly relationships with the locals.

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Iraqi Stories:

DVIDS

Iraqi Soldiers Learn Humvee Maintenance

(Army photos/Capt. Heather Guck)

AL SINIYAH AIRBASE - Capt. Jason Gordon, a legal officer with TF Marne chats with students at Tikrit University, Feb. 25. Captain Gordon and several Soldiers from the 4th IBCT, 1st ID and TF Marne visit the university weekly to help Iraqi students learn English, and build friendships.

Spc. Denton Clowser, a mechanic with Co F, 701st BSB, 4th IBCT, shows IA mechanics tips on humvee maintenance, during a class he and a fellow mechanic in Co. F developed to help their Iraqi counterparts better maintain their vehicles.

Spc. Michael Siebert, a mechanic with Co F, teaches IA mechanics transmission and turbocharger maintenance, as well as how to manage fluid levels, diagnose electrical system problems, conduct inspections, and replace brake pads.

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DVIDS

Mississippi Guardsmen Deliver Gifts for Rhode Island Town

Location: CONTINGENCY OPERATING LOCATION Q-WEST, IQ

COB Q-WEST - Spc. John Day, a gun truck cmdr, serving with A Co, 2nd Bn, 198th Combined Arms, 155th BCT, out of Hernando, Miss, guides his vehicle through Jedallah Anuk, a village near COL Q-West, during a humanitarian mission to deliver care packages, Feb. 1. The Mississippi Guardsmen, who serve as the Q-West force protection co, were delivering packages in behalf of the city of Barrington, R.I. Since 2003, Barrington has been sending clothing, school supplies and other items to Jedallah Anuk, in an Adopt-a-Village program initiated by the 101st Abn Div.

A young girl accepts a toy horse from a Mississippi Guardsman.

Spc. John Day, a gun truck cmdr, jokes with Iraqi children as he guides his vehicle through Jedallah Anuk.

Townsfolk crowd into the schoolyard of Jedallah Anuk to receive gifts.

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Blackanthem Military News

Charlie Wilson entertains service members

(Photos by Sgt. John Stimac)

Charlie Wilson of the Charlie Wilson Band performs for service members, Feb. 24 at the Sustainer Theater at JBB. Wilson performed in Iraq for the second consecutive year, wrapping up this tour, Feb. 25.

JOINT BASE BALAD - Wilson recently overcame prostate cancer and put out a new album, then came to JBB and performed his hit single "There Goes My Baby." He also performed some of his classic Gap Band songs, including "You Dropped a Bomb on Me."

Jenna Lankford, an asst for Wilson, said the group was more prepared than it was last year and knew what to expect. "We come here for the troops," said Lankford. "It's not about getting paid; it's about the people risking their lives for us, and us being able to give one good night of entertainment."

Wilson said that he's made some memories in Iraq. "I love coming here," he said. "I come here to make service members have some fun and that's the bottom line. I've been asked to come back next year and I'm delighted to." Wilson said he appreciates service members' work, and will continue to bring his love to them. "From the bottom of my heart, anything I can do for you just ask, and I'm on my way," he said. "I don't care what it is or what's going on; if you can get me here, I'm there."

TAJI - NCOs from various units of the Iraqi Ground Forces graduated from the Senior NCO Course (SNCO) at the Regional Training Center, Feb. 28. This was the 5th SNCO course taught by Iraqi instructors and assisted by NATO advisors.

In this course, the 27 students enhanced their knowledge in senior NCO studies including military leadership, military law, info technologies, and staff procedures. "They [NCOs] are a vital part of the military team," said Maj. Gen. Giuseppe Spinelli, dep. cmdr of the NATO Training Mission - Iraq. "What they've learned in their studies here, will make the difference in fighting and winning the struggle in the defense of freedom and democracy."

This 45-day course was designed and supported by NTM-I, in collaboration with USF - Iraq, to strengthen the NCO corps of ISF, develop mid-level leadership, and provide Iraqi SNCOs with an outline of duties, responsibilities, operational and administrative leadership principles.

Col. Alaa, Senior NCOs' school cmdr, emphasized the growing importance of the NCO corps in Iraqi Forces. "On behalf of the school I'd like to express gratitude to our NATO colleagues for the huge efforts they invest in the training of Iraqi Forces NCOs," he said.

The top students and their instructors were awarded with certificates of appreciation during the official ceremony.

1st Lt. Gregory Veteto, left, and a British solider with Alpha Sqdrn, Cav Regt look over a map near Marjah, Feb. 21, 2010. The Marines and British soldiers are working together to provide better security on the roads in Helmand prov.

Marines with Charlie Co; Soldiers with the 630th Engr Co; British soldiers; and Dutch soldiers meet near Marjah, Feb. 21, 2010. Their units are part of TF Helmand. TF members are creating a plan to improve security in the area.

Cpl. Matthew W. Delari, with Charlie Co, provides security during a patrol, Feb. 21, 2010. Marines are linking up with other TF Helmand units in the area to discuss strategy.

U.S. Marines and ANA soldiers conduct a patrol near Marjah, Feb. 21, 2010. ANA soldiers escort Marine forces so that Afghan civilians can see the progress their military has made.

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DoD Imagery

Patrolling in Marjah

(DoD photo by Lance Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde, Marine Corps)

Marine Corps Lance Cpls. Daniel Garner (left) and Chris Ducharme, both with 3rd Plt, India Co, 3rd Bn, 6th Marine Regt, investigate a possible IED while on a patrol in Marjah, Helmand prov., Feb. 22, 2010. Marines and ANA soldiers patrolled through a residential area of the city to carry out counterinsurgency ops as part of Op Moshtarak.

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Mark Trent, a scout sniper with 3rd Plt, provides security inside a compound in Marjah, Feb. 16, 2010. The Marines took shelter inside the compound after clearing it of insurgents and IEDs. Marines and ANA soldiers are conducting Op Moshtarak to remove the Taliban from the town.

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DVIDS

Afghan Flag Flies Over Marjah

Children of the city of Marjah, Helmand prov., attend a ceremony, Feb. 25, in which the Afghan flag is raised over their town, signifying a monumental step in taking back the city from Taliban insurgents. Hundreds of Afghans showed up to support their newly-appointed govt officials and ANSF providing safety to the region.

KABUL - A young boy smiles as the Afghan flag flies once again over the town of Marjah. The flag was raised yesterday in a ceremony involving Helmand Gov. Mangal, community officials, and Afghan and ISAF security partners. The flag-raising symbolized the return of govt authority in the community, a focal point of governance activities since the start of Op Moshtarak.

ANP stand at the ready during a ceremony raising the Afghan flag.

Gov. Mangal pays credit to U.S. and Afghan leadership responsible for the improved security in the city of Marjah, Feb. 25. Due to the security of the area, officials were able to raise the Afghan flag over the town, for the first time since insurgents infiltrated the city of Marjah years ago.

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CJTF 82 Public Affairs, Bagram Media Center

NZ PRT helps celebrate birthdays at Bamyan area orphanage

By Spc. Charles Thompson

BAMYAN PROVINCE – New Zealand PRT cmdr, Col. Martin Dransfield, has fun with children at Samar Orphanage during a birthday party held for the February birthdays, Bamyan prov., Feb. 22. The New Zealand PRT has had a long-standing relationship with the orphanage, often visiting for occasions such as birthday parties.

Bayman prov. Gov., Dr. Sarabi, presents a gift to an outstanding student. The gov. spoke and ate with the children, during a ceremony honoring outstanding students and February birthdays.

Children celebrating their birthdays in February. They got to sing, receive gifts and eat birthday cake.

KABUL, Feb. 24, 2010 – A combined Afghan and ISAF arrested a suspected bomb maker after discovering an explosives cache in Helmand prov., Feb. 23, as part of Op Moshtarak. The cache consisted of more than 100 lbs of explosives, 220 lbs of ammonium nitrate, an 8 2mm mortar fuse, 3 ammo-filled vests, and various explosive components such as anti-tamper switches. The bomb maker was found with blasting caps on his person.

In other ops Feb. 23:

-- A combined Afghan and ISAF searched a vehicle in Helmand prov., after intel reports indicated militant activity. A search of the vehicle indicated a Taliban cmdr was possibly in a nearby village, which the combined force searched with the assistance of local elders. The SECFOR detained several men for further questioning.

-- A combined patrol discovered a weapons cache consisting of 22 mortar rounds in Khost prov. The ordnance was destroyed on site.

-- In Helmand province, a patrol discovered 15 bags of marijuana totaling more than 200 pounds. A separate patrol discovered a weapons cache, while searching an insurgent bunker in Helmand prov., as part of Op Moshtarak. The cache consisted of 3 107 mm rockets, 5 RPGs, 2 anti-personnel charges, an artillery fuse and a hand grenade.

Marine Corps Capt. Stephan Karabin II (right) with Charlie Co, 1st Bn, 3rd Marine Regt talks with British soldiers about clearing roads near Marjah, Feb. 21, 2010. Karabin is working with many different TF Helmand units, to remove all Taliban forces from the prov.

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DoD Imagery

(DoD photo by Sgt. Russell Gilchrest, Army)

An Army soldier with Alpha Co, 1st Bn, 503rd Inf Regt, 173rd Abn BCT conducts a patrol with a plt of ANA soldiers in the village of Yawez, Wardak prov., Feb. 17, 2010.

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Iraqi Stories:

DVIDS

New Police Training Center Opens in Salah Ad-Din Province

Story by Spc. Richard Colletta

TIKRIT – The IP in Salah ad-Din prov. took a huge step forward when they officially opened the doors to a new police training center that was built to replace an older facility, and was completely funded by the Iraq MoI.

The new center opened Feb. 22, boasts barracks space for police and recruits, classrooms, a parade deck, dining facility, and a shooting range, in addition to other amenities needed to train and house the IP. The center was built in only 11 months, and will provide advanced training in police ops to new recruits, as well as current IP officers.

Since 2003, the IP and SECFOR have developed force training for surveillance, counter-explosives and forensic investigations. They now have specialized forces including EOD teams, K-9 handlers and SWAT teams.

1st Lt. Lorenzo Ruiz, Plt Leader, 2nd Plt, walks alongside an interpreter, and a few young locals during an IDF.

Pfc. Gene Hinton relays info to other members of his unit.

1st Lt. Lorenzo Ruiz shakes hands with a young farmer.

Sgt. Ray Prieve, squad leader, 1st Squad, 2nd Plt, hands out a bag of goodies to a few young villagers.

Soldiers from 2nd Plt resume their IDF Patrol after taking a moment to catch their bearings.

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Daquq Hospital Evaluation

(Photos by Spc. Joel LeMaistre)

DAQUQ - A member of the IP welcomes U.S. Soldiers from HQ Co, 1st Bde, 1st AR Div, to the Daquq Hospital in Daquq, Feb. 25, 2010. These Soldiers were evaluating the hospital's needs, response capabilities, and voting opportunities for patients in preparation for the upcoming elections.